Where San Diego Magazine Winter 2015

WINTER 2015 WHERESD.COM

San Diego

®

Brand-New Nightspots Fresh Juice, Coffee and Cocktails San Diego’s Mexican Food Revolution

Sweet Spots

Six dreamy, deliciously decadent reasons to save room for dessert

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where san diego winter 2015 CONTENTS

THE DINING ISSUE

departments

the guide

5 Editor’s Note

38 DINING Restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood

The dreaded “C” word.

7 Hot Dates Farmers Insurance Open, Museum Month and more.

55 ENTERTAINMENT Special events, performing arts, casinos and sports

72 30 Things We Love The view from atop Cowles Mountain; ice-skating at the Del.

60 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Theme parks, activities and exhibitions

where now

62 SHOPPING The county’s best malls and major retail destinations

8 Dining Bottega Americano and Table No. 10 in East Village; OB Warehouse in Ocean Beach.

63 NIGHTLIFE Hot dance clubs, laid-back lounges and cool cocktail bars

10 Sip+Savor Juice Saves and Zymology 21 downtown; The Swell Cafe in Mission Beach.

65 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, getting around and getting an insider’s look at the city

12 Nightlife

D Bar San Diego’s signature dessert—the Molten Cake Thingy That Everyone Has— featured in “Sweet Spots” (pp. 18-19).

features 14 Shell Shock From organic “Baja gastronomy” to gourmet tacos to mesquite mania, San Diego is amid a true Mexican food revolution.

We rounded up some newer restaurants taking it to the next level.

Downtown La Jolla Beach Cities Uptown North Coast Old Town Balboa Park

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BY SARAH DAOUST

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San Diego has become a bona fide dessert destination—from dedicated cookie and pie shops to trendy bakeries to stylish stores showcasing exquisite chocolate confections.

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Copyright © 2014

Mendocino

wheresd.com Get the up-to-the-minute buzz from our Southern California WHERE editors online and on your smartphone.

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14 Shrimp and jicama tacos at The Blind Burro

DE L

AD Nightclub, Fairweather bar and the 40th anniversary of the Belly Up in Solana Beach.

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UTC

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Pick up your Passport to Savings at Westfield Guest Services next to Express.

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Welcome A note from the editor

THE “C” WORD

23%

4 famous attractions

So, this whole cooking thing ... For some, it’s a natural-born talent; for some, it’s a hobby; for some, it’s a necessity; and for others, it’s all of the above. And then there’s me, the girl who uses her oven to store shoes; who leaps back in fear when the stovetop

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burner comes alive with that eerie blue flame; and who, when invited to take a cooking class with friends or for work, responds with: “Why? Can’t I just pay someone to make me the food?

I thought you liked me!” Seriously, what’s wrong with me? Am I missing the cooking gene? My grandma was a masterful baker and canner. My mom managed to make cooking for seven children on a nightly basis an art form with her signature meatloaf, stir-fries and Sunday night brisket dinners. My

Universal Studios HollywoodSM

sisters regularly share recipes with each other on Facebook while I look on, mystified by the mysterious language they’re speaking. Culinary Pig Latin, perhaps? When I do “cook,” which is about once every couple weeks, I make one of three things: turkey tacos, turkey burgers or spaghetti … with ground turkey. Then repeat. Thank goodness I have a job that requires me to eat out often, as it’s the perfect scapegoat; and thank goodness I live in Little Italy, where dozens of eateries and take-out options are just a short stroll away. Perhaps I should stop beating myself up over my lack of cooking skills or desire, and instead focus on my strength: eating. For this dining issue, boy, did I eat. I ate tacos loaded with crickets from Tacos Perla for our “Shell Shock” feature (see p. 14). I ate crispy chicken skins at Table No. 10. I ate gazillion-calorie waffle sandwiches at Rare Form. I ate and ate

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and ate. And I did it all for you. (Avoiding that scary blue flame at home was merely a fringe benefit, I swear.) Hey, do they offer a cardio cooking class? Maybe I need to try that one at this point. —SARAH DAOUST

Prices and programs subject to change.

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WHERE CALENDAR WINTER 2015 Search the full calendar at wheresd.com

HOT DATES

Top Stops

NAB A LITTLE HOLIDAY SPIRIT WITH THESE SEASONAL FÊTES.

DEC. 5-6 BRIGHT LIGHTS Attracting more than 300,000 visitors, Balboa Park's December Nights (pictured below) is San Diego's largest free festival. Festivities include carolers, music and holiday light displays; plus many museums open their doors free of charge from 5-9 p.m. p. 55 DEC. 13-14 BIBLE STUDY At Holiday in the Park, see Old Town State Historic Park decked out for the holidays with extended shopping hours, strolling carolers and Las Posadas—a centuries-old tradition in which actors reenact the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph through the town of Bethlehem on Dec. 14. p. 55

Gary Woodland hits a tee shot on the ninth hole at the 2014 Farmers Insurance Open.

FEB. 5-8 Tee Time It’s that time of year! Don’t miss the annual Farmers Insurance Open—a four-day competition during which the world's top pro golfers tee off at the stunning, oceanview Torrey Pines Golf Course. As San Diego’s most celebrated PGA tournament, the action-packed spectacle includes the Sycuan and Zurich Pro-Am competitions, a women’s day, charitable activities and military support opportunities. p. 56

7

GREAT THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED

TOP, ROBERT LABERGE / GETTY IMAGES

1 WHALE-WATCHING > ONGOING The winter and spring months are especially ideal for sighting both blue and gray whales in San Diego waters.

Plan an excursion for February or March. p. 55

HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at WhereSD.com for the up-to-the-minute lowdown on the coolest concerts, sporting events, festivals, art exhibits and restaurants.

2 ICE SKATING > THROUGH JAN. 4 Celebrate the holiday season San Diego-style with Skating by the Sea (pictured at left), a temporary outdoor ice skating rink on the Hotel Del Coronado’s Windsor lawn overlooking the Pacific Ocean. p. 55 3 POINSETTIA BOWL > DEC. 23 Get out your alma mater gear for college football at its finest at the ninth annual San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl at Qualcomm Stadium. The game will match a top team from the Mountain West against a bowl-eligible U.S. Naval Academy. p. 55

4 MLK DAY PARADE > JAN. 18 Celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. at this annual waterfront parade along San Diego Bay. Enjoy an afternoon of bands, floats and drill teams as they march along the Embarcadero downtown. p. 55 5 MUSEUM MONTH > FEB. 1-28 Explore more than 40 of San Diego's top museums, historical sites, monuments and gardens for half-off admission, including Birch Aquarium at Scripps, Maritime Museum and Balboa Park's museums. p. 55

DEC. 14 AND DEC. 21 FLOAT ON At the always-gorgeous, 44rd annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, see San Diego Bay twinkle with more than 100 private boats decked out with holiday lights for a night on the water. p. 55 DEC. 26 HOT AIR Gaze at massive displays at the country’s largest balloon parade along Harbor Drive downtown at the Port of San Diego Big Bay Balloon Parade, including floats and marching bands. p. 55

6 MARDI GRAS > FEB. 17 Celebrate Fat Tuesday at the Hillcrest Mardi Gras Street Party; or venture to the Gaslamp Quarter for the largest Mardi Gras festival on the West Coast. p. 56 7 CHINESE NEW YEAR FOOD & CULTURAL FAIR > FEB. 21-22 Enjoy 25-plus performances, children’s crafts, a lantern parade, and Chinese and Asian foods and cultural displays downtown. p. 56

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where now san diego

THE BEST IN ENTERTAINMENT, SHOPPING AND DINING

DINING

Buon Appetito The wait has been worth it. Bottega Americano, the most ambitious culinary concept to hit East Village this year, has opened after months of construction and anticipation. Spearheaded by an all-star team that includes renowned interior designer Thomas Schoos and Executive Chef David Warner, the sprawling, 8,000-square-foot Italian eatery is a slightly different experience every time you visit.

The full-service restaurant features traditional dining tables, an al fresco patio, communal seating, a cocktail bar and various interactive culinary bars—including crudo, pizza, pasta and dessert bars—around which guests can dine and watch the action in the kitchen live; plus a boutique marketplace and gourmet deli. On the menu: stone-fired pizzas (the fennel sausage and kale pizza is pictured), handmade pasta, authentic Italian desserts and one of the best mussels dishes in San Diego. 1195 Island Ave., East Village, 619.255.7800

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The asparagus salad with a poached egg at Table No. 10

ALL AMERICAN If eating a plate of crispy chicken skins sans actual chicken meat is wrong, then we don’t want to be right. That's right, Table No. 10—the newest foodie-focused foray to take over the historical 1919 Carnation Milk factory building in East Village—serves crispy chicken skins as a starter, and they’re well worth the caloric commitment. Under the direction of Executive Chef Jason Gethin, Table No. 10 is approachable fine dining that isn’t afraid to have a little fun—featuring an open kitchen, urban-industrial décor, craft cocktails, an onsite garden and a modern American menu loaded with small plates—try the scallop and pork belly dish, as well as the daily selection of deviled eggs.

For a larger plate, the Kobe beef brisket is divine; order it with a side of Parmesan risotto sprinkled with Italian black summer truffles, along with the asparagus salad topped with a poached egg. 369 10th Ave., East Village, 619.550.1262

BOTTOM RIGHT, MIKE NEWTON

Globe-Trotting The dynamic freight train known as the Cohn Restaurant Group doesn’t slow down, with nearly two-dozen restaurants now under its belt. Meet its latest brainchild: OB Warehouse, a casual bar and eatery focused on global cuisine and handcrafted, warehousethemed cocktails. Designed by Philippe Beltran,

the airy, 6,000-squarefoot industrial space is located on the second floor of the former Portugalia building. Repurposed materials define the décor and give it that eclectic, worldly feel—from a 1965 Airstream trailer that peeks into the kitchen, to a 1960s gym bench repurposed as lounge seating, to oversized

tables sourced from an old shoe factory in Portugal. In the kitchen, chefs Amiko Gubbins and Elias Gonzales oversee a menu of salads, flatbreads and such entrées as garam masala-dusted scallops with jeweled couscous and Moroccan spicerubbed flatiron steak.

4839 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.222.1700

Interior of OB Warehouse

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WHERE NOW / san

diego

SIP+SAVOR

Drink Up Experimental cocktails, organic coffee and juice that is much more than merely fresh-squeezed? Yes, please.

JUICY DETAILS It's a hip smoothie

CAFFEINE BUZZ Coffee connoisseur and Navy veteran John Vallas has partnered with Gina Champion Cain of The Patio Restaurant Group to turn his former Café Mono in Mission Beach into The Swell Café—a destination coffee shop and health-focused eatery serving breakfast, lunch and smoothies; as well as premium, earth-conscious coffee and espresso. Its high-quality, organic coffee is sourced from direct-trade beans from the world’s most exclusive farms. The café features a charming, pet-friendly patio—perfect for enjoying fresh-roasted Vietnamese coffee and a guarana acai bowl. 3833 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.539.0039 SCIENTIFIC SIPS It’s a restaurant and

cocktail bar-meets science laboratory. Translation: Zymology 21 is a fun experiment in imbibing. Served in glass lab beakers or test tubes, all cocktails are mixed with “shrubs”—colonial-era mixers, crafted by fermenting fresh fruits in vinegar and sugar for at least two weeks. Try the Half Moon Fizz made with Tuthilltown Half Moon Orchard Gin and a blueberry-applethyme fizz. 750 Fifth Ave. Gaslamp Quarter, 619.546.9321

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Clockwise from left: Lindsay Nader; Juice Saves blends; artful sips at The Swell Cafe; "Zsicle" cocktails at Zymology 21.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: JOHN DOLE, DERRICK TRAN, TYLER BEACH, COURTESY ZYMOLOGY 21.

and juice bar that lives up to its slogan: “Keep it real.” Welcome to Juice Saves, where organic, cold-pressed, unpasteurized, locally sourced fruit and vegetable juices are extracted through a cutting-edge hydraulic press; then blended for nutrition and balance.

The "juicery" is the newest concept from CH Projects, in partnership with acclaimed beverage pro Lindsay Nader.

Try the Pulp Fiction made with spinach, cucumber, pineapple and cilantro; or Drop the Beet, a blend of beets, carrot, blood orange, ginger and lemon. 631 Ninth Ave., East Village, 619.255.2653

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Where the magic of the sea comes to life.

STORE LISTING (partial) Alamo Flags Apple Box Toys Bay Company Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Buster’s Beach House & Longboard Bar California Original Sunglasses Candy Shack & Yogurt Del Sol Destination Travel Edgewater Grill Frost Me Gourmet Cupcakes Harbor House Restaurant Hot Licks Margarita’s Kitchen & Cantina Mistletoe Mugger San Diego Surf Co. Sports Headquarters Seaport Oil, Vinegars & Wines Swings N’ Things The Tile Shop Toy Cottage Upstart Crow Windsong

849 W. Harbor Drive | San Diego, CA 92101 | 619-235-4014 | seaportvillage.com

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WHERE NOW / san

diego

NIGHTLIFE

STEP OUT

From bottle service to casual concerts to cool cocktails, San Diego nightlife aims to please.

BIBLICAL PROPORTIONS

It’s like stepping inside a modern cathedral with a full-service bar at AD Nightclub, the Gaslamp’s new upscale entertainment venue.

The 300-capacity space, dreamt up by Davis Ink (the same designer behind Fluxx and Side Bar), is one part bar, one part dance club and one part theatrical multisensory experience—heightened by aerial performers and state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems.

Vibrantly colored stained glass circles on the ceiling enhance the whimsical decor, along with church-style archways, columns, candles and cathedral–inspired wall cutouts, one of which holds a statue of a praying Mary; meanwhile, a mural of Jesus wearing sunglasses decorates the wall behind the main bar. AD is a prime spot to dress to impress and splurge on bottle service, with 11 custom booths set aside for such special occasions.

Be on the lookout for creative theme nights and headlining DJs. 905 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.780.3606 BLUE SKIES

CH Projects is on a roll with yet another new culinary/cocktail dual concept: Rare Form, a stylish neighborhood deli and schnapps bar; and Fairweather, an open-air rooftop

AD Nightclub's main bar

bar—both of which are located in the historic Simon Levi building and overseen by cocktail veteran Anthony Schmidt. Downstairs at Rare Form, feast on Executive Chef Aldo Negrete’s butcher shop-style cuts of meat— from smoked ham to house-cured pastrami to knockwurst to chicken schnitzel—along with pâtés, terrines, soups and savory waffle sandwiches. To drink, choose from nine featured schnapps cocktails, draft beers, wine and three different boilermakers—old-school classics that pair a shot of schnapps alongside a draft beer chaser. Upstairs, Fairweather is a 1,500-square-foot rooftop patio oasis overlooking Petco Park, featuring “drinks from

Fairweather in East Village

sunny places.” Sip on a classic daiquiri, mai tai, piña colada or mojito; or a signature cocktail such as the Trinidad Sunset made with three different rums, fresh juices and crème de casis. 793 J St., East Village, 619.255.6507 MUSICAL MILESTONE

For many live music lovers in North County, there’s no better way to spend a night out than at the Belly Up—arguably the best venue for live music in all of San Diego. And now there’s even more reason to visit the celebrated concert hall: its 40th birthday.

That’s right, the Belly Up has been hosting both up-and-coming and headlining music acts for four decades. What started as a modest watering hole in 1974, known more for billiards and pinball than live music, eventually attracted local bluegrass bands. Later, biggies like Bo Diddley, Big Mama Thornton, Etta James and John Lee Hooker stopped by to perform. Over the years, the list of talent gracing the Belly Up’s stage has included the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Black Eyed Peas, No Doubt, John Mayer, Green Day, Death Cab for Cutie and Foster the People, to name a few. The 600-capacity space feels both intimate and spacious—perfect for enjoying the musicians up close, while leaving plenty of room to dance. 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach, 858.481.8140

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O RAN G E

AV E N U E

A

premier destination for world-class shopping and dining, Orange Avenue is nestled in the heart of historic Coronado—located just minutes from downtown San Diego. Enjoy a scenic drive over the famed Coronado Bridge or take the ferry across the bay to access this exclusive seaside community’s many charming shops and restaurants.

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918 Orange Ave. 619 727 4080 slsdgallery.com

LEROY’S KITCHEN & LOUNGE 1015 Orange Ave. 619 437 6087 leroyskitchenandlounge.com

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Ahhh, San Diego … the little taco town that could. Long known for its fish tacos, thanks to a little joint named Rubio’s (which started the craze in 1983), the city boasts a rich history and culinary identity embedded in edible shells both soft and crispy. And not only have our tacos blazed trails, but also our taco shops garner cult followings and stick around. Legendary local taco shop El Indio turns 75 in 2015; while popular taco shop Roberto’s just turned 50; and Las Cuatro Milpas in Barrio Logan regularly commands lines around the block at lunchtime. v As San Diego’s culinary landscape continues to evolve, so has the movement to take not only tacos, but also Mexican cuisine collectively, to that next level. It’s become increasingly progressive and ambitious, with inventive chefs pulling influences from nearby Baja, as well as Mexico City, and utilizing local farms for their ingredients more than ever. Here, we present some newer eateries that are changing the game in Mexican cuisine—blending authenticity and tradition with modern touches and creative twists.

Tacos Perla's Del Mar taco with Mexican shrimp; and the Ocho with braised, grilled octopus

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We’re talking tacos, but not just tacos.

From organic “Baja gastronomy” to gourmet tacos to mesquite mania, San Diego is amid a true Mexican food revolution.

By SARAH DAOUST

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DETAILS The Blind Burro 639 J St., East Village, 619.795.7880 Común Kitchen & Tavern 935 J St., East Village, 619.358.9707 Don Chido 527 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.232.8226 Fish 101 1468 N. Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, 760.943.6221 Haggo’s Organic Taco 1114 N. Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, 760.753.6000 Josefas Cocina Mexicana 909 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.1961 Puesto 1026 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.1260; 789 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.233.8880 Tacos Perla 3000 Upas St., North Park, 619.795.0700 Zarco Cocina de Baja 277 Third Ave., Chula Vista, 619.934.5700

From top left: daily specials chalkboard at Fish 101; Chef de Cuisine Aaron Obregon and Chef Flor Franco, owner of Zarco Cocina de Baja; salsas at Tacos Perla; tacos for days at Puesto.

churns out hand-made tortillas and traditional taco dishes, plus a few experiments in modern gastronomy such as the Ocho—braised, then grilled, local octopus with poblano, pesto and cheese. And if crickets aren’t your first choice of protein, go for the carne asada tacos.

Downtown, several outposts are upping the Mexican food ante with progressive dishes that don’t skimp on flavor. At Común Kitchen & Tavern, the menu is an ambitious exercise in Baja gastronomy thanks to Chef Chad White. Think: smoked shark, octopus and chicken heart tostadas; squash, sardine and lardo tortas; and family-style común (or shareable plates) that have recently included beef rib cap and fried San Felipe-style fish collar. A must-try dish is the Borrego, made with black beans, pork-jowl chorizo and bacon, served with tortillas and baby kale salad.

Nearby, Don Chido is a new taqueira featuring handcrafted Mexican cuisine with an emphasis on wood-fired meats, courtesy of its authentic, mesquite-style Santa Maria grill. Chef Antonio Friscia architects dishes such as wood-fired chicken breast with roasted local root veggies, a carne asada focaccia torta and wood-fired Baja fish tacos. A popular house specialty is the Seafood Chile Rellano with stuffed, roasted poblanos, shrimp, scallops, white fish, manchego, jack cheese and corn.

At The Blind Burro, the menu can be aptly described as sustainable Mexican street food with a modern edge, inspired by coastal Baja cuisine. The protein-heavy menu is filled with both traditional and contemporary dishes.

Our picks: the mole chicken tacos with queso fresco, cilantro and sesame seeds; the coffee-rubbed salmon tacos with tomatillo-avocado kale slaw, lime crema and avocado; and the achiote shrimp tacos with queso Oaxaca and roasted pineapple-habanero salsa.

Down in Chula Vista, Chef Flor Franco’s Zarco Cocina de Baja sings with flavors from southern Mexico, Spain and the Valle de Guadalupe—Baja’s wine region—as well as local growers such as Suzie’s Farm. Seafood delights include the Tiradito de la Casa, a sashimi-style preparation of yellowtail, smoky morsels of grilled octopus, yuzu, Peruvian rocoto and aji amarillo peppers; and the hearty Arroz a la Montada with clams, mussels, shrimp and pieces of local fish. As a specialty dish, try the jamón ibérico—a Spain-derived cured ham that is considered among the finest in the world. The bistro also serves nearly 100 wines from Baja wineries—more than any other San Diego restaurant.

TOP FAR LEFT, JULIAN MARTIN

Sleepy Leucadia in North County isn’t so sleepy when it comes to tacos that awaken the taste buds. Opened in 2011, Haggo’s Organic Taco isn’t officially “new,” but it’s regularly a new discovery for taco fanatics craving the freshest ingredients possible. From the popular Garden Variety burrito loaded with veggies to the Ron Burgundy burrito filled with flank steak, every single ingredient at Haggo’s is organic and locally sourced. Our favorite: the handmade Veronica Corningstone tacos made with an organic vegan patty, vegan non-GMO cheese, organic salsa cruda, organic avocado and cilantro—served with brown rice and beans.

Nearby, Fish 101 is not a Mexican restaurant; however, its fish tacos are better than most you’ll find anywhere in North County. The casual fish house is known for its fresh seafood and seasonal produce, and its tacos epitomize the best of both. Choose either shrimp or fish tacos, fried or grilled, and accompanied by cabbage, pico de gallo, crema and tomatillo salsa on the side. Fish 101 tacos are simplicity perfected.

In La Jolla, Josefas Cocina Mexicana is an eclectic, colorful new addition to the dining scene. The menu mixes traditional fare such as tacos, tostadas, tortas and fajitas, with avant-garde cuisine, thanks to Executive Chef Omar Ramirez. Adventurous diners will love the Mar y Tierra Molcajete, a mixed-grill dish of chicken, shrimp, cactus paddle and ranch-style chorizo served in a stone-mortar bowl; as well as the cheesy Queso Fundido and the trio of street tacos.

Also in La Jolla and with a second, newer outpost at The Headquarters at Seaport District, Puesto sets the standard for exceptional Mexican street food this side of the border. The taco-laden menu boasts organic ingredients that emphasize Puesto’s focus on sustainability and reasonable price points. You can’t go wrong with your choice of three tacos for $12; try the vegetarian potato-soy-chorizo taco with tomatillo roja, the filet mignon taco with crispy melted cheese, avocado and spicy pistachio jalapeño, and the lobster taco with black beans, avocado and crispy onions. For an unusual and healthy option, try the Mexican Street Bowl, filled with fresh mango, pineapple, melon, cucumber, jicama, chili, sea salt and lime juice.

In North Park, it’s time to talk crickets. Tacos Perla, a new, fast-casual, funky-cool Mexican joint, offers crickets as a taco topping for those who dare. Led by The Pearl Hotel's Executive Chef Jaison Burke, the kitchen

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Sweet Spots

San Diego has officially become a bona fide dessert destination. We have proof. By DAVID MOYE

San Diego is known for its Mexican cuisine, craft beer and fresh seafood, but it’s getting a sweet reputation as a dessert destination. v “I’ve never seen more dessert places, specifically, in a city anywhere else,” says Keegan Gerhard, who owns D Bar in Hillcrest. “It’s become a little mecca for dessert joints.” v Chocolate is of course the top dessert flavor, but Gerhard credits the availability of fresh fruit 12 months a year as to why San Diego might be America’s Finest City for desserts. “I can get strawberries at the local market all year round, better than my buyer up north,” he laughs. v Isabella Knack of Dallmann Fine Chocolates believes San Diego’s dessert devotees add another important ingredient: imagination. “People here are more open to trying new things,” says Dallmann, a third-generation chocolatier. “My father in Austria can’t do that. His customers want things the way they’ve always been.” v After scouring the county (and avoiding the scale) for the latest and greatest “desserteries,” we rounded up some of our favorite places to have your cake (as well as pie, cookies, brownies and confections) and eat it, too.

Betty’s Pie Whole, located on the site of Sunshine Gardens Nursery, is a quaint pie shop with the feel of an old-time, “Come on down, y’all!” roadside attraction on Route 66—complete with a pet tortoise and a pair of pygmy goats on site. While parents gorge on the cherry lattice pie made with sour Michigan

cherries, accompanied by a slice of cheddar cheese, or the chocolate cookie dough pie made with a shortbread crust, the kids can pig out on a chocolate-peanut delicacy called the “Cow Pie”—which looks like the real kind of cow pie, but tastes much better. Choose from around 20 sweet selections, which come as

whole-sized pies or as individual slices. (The pie shop also makes an array of savory pies.)

The cranberry turtle pie is a specialty during the winter months. 155 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, 760.230.6781 Dessert outpost Elizabethan Desserts is a darling, small-town bakery circa 1950

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D Bar San Diego’s vanilla shake and threelayer chocolate cake

and may be the sweetest thing to come to Encinitas since the surfboard. Can’t make it to Tijuana? The Mexican Brownie, a cinnamon brownie covered in cinnamon ganache and drizzled with chocolate, is a delicious way to honor our neighbors to the south; as is the churro cupcake. For the holidays, chocolatedipped candy canes and caramel apples are the ticket. Other popular treats include lemon bars, house-made Twinkies, strawberry “whoopie” pies, and cocktail-inspired cupcakes. Owner Elizabeth Harris also keeps plenty of classic board games on hand—such as Yahtzee, Connect Four and Battleship— making it a beloved locals’ hangout. Game on.

114 N. El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760.230.6780

Recently opened by restaurateur Terryl Gavre, Bake Sale is East Village’s new homestyle bakery and café, and as hot a destination for foodies as the chocolate croissants that come out of the oven each morning. With Kathleen Shen as head baker, Bake Sale is the type of place where you feel like a regular almost immediately. Highlights include the caramel-pretzel bars, double-chocolate brownies, ice-cream sandwiches, pecan sticky buns and gluten-free selections such as the triple-chocolate cookies. Expect lots of gingerbread cookies during the holidays, or you can take classes on making pies and cakes for the family. 815 F St., East Village, 619.515.2224 Dallmann Fine Chocolates owner Isabella Knack loves adding new-world tastes such as curry and bacon to old-style chocolates. Located at The Headquarters at Seaport District, Dallmann hosts chocolate-making classes, as well as tasting events, in the newly renovated upstairs area. Knack loves pairing gourmet chocolates with wine, local beer or artisan cheeses. With January as Mozart Month in San Diego, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the family specialty: the Mozartkugel, a chocolate

that blends hazelnut nougat and pistachio marzipan in the center, encoded with bittersweet Swiss couverture chocolate. Or choose from 120 other fine European chocolates and pastries. 789 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.238.0045 You might recognize D Bar San Diego owner Keegan Gerhard (one of the top pastry chefs in the nation) as host and judge of Food Network Challenge, but his take on the classic Spanish dessert Churros Con Chocolate is the star here. Sit at the dessert bar, where you can watch your Bananas Foster pie with homemade ice cream being made, and talk to the chef while it’s happening. Expect lots of variations on Christmas classics during the holidays, but Gerhard intends to emphasize citrus desserts using locally grown fruits in the New Year. Meanwhile, don’t miss the Molten Cake Thingy That Everyone Has—a chocolate lava cake with raspberry compote, Sicilian pistachio ice cream and a truffle hidden inside.

3930 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.3227 The storefront of The Cravory is small, but the owners have a big mission: to do for cookies what Ben & Jerry’s did for ice cream. Along with classics like its salted chocolate-chip cookie, the delightfully innovative Pancakes & Bacon cookie and Balsamic Rosemary cookie are unusual and addictive. The owners also experiment with Asian influences by using taro, a root popular in Hawaii. Seasonal offerings include the Gingerbread Latte cookie and Peppermint Oreos during the holidays; and look for the His & Her chocolate-covered strawberry cookie around Valentine’s Day. 3960 W. Point Loma Blvd., Point Loma, 619.795.9077

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EXPLORING

Downtown

THE PAST AND PRESENT COME TOGETHER IN SAN DIEGO’S LIVELY, HISTORIC DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORHOODS.

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Downtown San Diego is the city’s bustling, historic core, which has grown by leaps and bounds in the last 10 years. From its trendy shops, restaurants and nightlife, to its noted landmarks such as Petco Park in East Village and the USS Midway on the harborfront, no two downtown visits need be the same.

Businessman Alonzo Erastus Horton envisioned San Diego as a bustling port city, and in 1867 he spent $264 for 800 acres he called “New Town.” Today, New Town is known as the historic Gaslamp Quarter, or simply “the Gaslamp.” Comprising more than 16 square blocks, the Gaslamp stretches from Broadway to Har­bor Drive (just north of the Convention Center), with Fourth, Fifth and Sixth ave­nues as its main thoroughfares. Anchoring the area’s northwest end is Horton Plaza, a small square with a bubbling fountain on the corner of Broadway and Fourth.

The Gaslamp’s immaculately preserved Victorian-style buildings are home to dozens of restaurants, clubs, ­theaters and retailers. Several tour guides offer an insider’s look at the Gaslamp (see p. 66), or create your own: The area can be easily covered on foot, or you can rent from Bike Revolution (522 Sixth Ave.) to navigate the district on two wheels.

If you start your exploration at the southern end of the Gaslamp, be sure to visit the Chuck Jones Gallery (232 Fifth Ave.) for cool animation art. Also check out the Art of Tim Cantor Gallery (527 Fourth Ave.) for conceptual art, oil paintings and writings. Shop for designer resale at Laurie Ann’s (310 K St.) and pre-owned luxury

watches at Nikki & Co. Fine Jewelers (562 Fifth Ave.). Stop in locally owned Dolcetti (635 Fifth Ave.) for contemporary men’s and women’s clothing and accessories. For national retailers, venture farther up Fifth, where you’ll find well-known stores such as trendy hat boutique Goorin Brothers (631 Fifth Ave.), Quiksilver (402 Fifth Ave.), Urban Outfitters (665 Fifth Ave.) and Dutch brand G-Star Raw (470 Fifth Ave.), with styles for men and women.

Or make your way over to Westfield Horton Plaza (see p. 63), a multilevel outdoor mall with a kaleidoscopic design that kicked off the revitalization of downtown when it was constructed in 1985. It’s now home to some 100 restaurants and shops, including White House Black Market, Macy’s, BCBG and more. There’s also culture to be had at the mall: San Diego Repertory Theatre performs on the Lyceum Theatre stage, and the historic Balboa Theatre anchors the shopping center’s eastern edge, at Fourth Avenue and E Street. And don’t mind the outdoor construction—a new urban plaza is slated to open in 2015.

After a long day of shopping and sightseeing, sate your hunger at one of the Gaslamp’s 100-plus restaurants, bars and cafés, ranging from American to Chinese to Indian to Thai to steak and seafood (please see dining guide, p. 54).

Parking can be dicey in the Gaslamp; a garage is your best bet. Park It On Market is a 500-space garage at Market Street with entrances on Sixth and Seventh avenues (619.232.1271); while 6th & K Parkade offers 1,230 spots, with entrances on Sixth and Seventh avenues (619.233.3994). For more information, call the ­Gas­lamp Quarter Association (619.233.5227).

Downtown’s Core

Arts and culture abound downtown. Sites worth exploring include the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego and The New Children’s Museum, an interactive art/play place with innovative exhibits for kids of all ages. The San Diego Chinese ­Historical Museum (404 Third Ave.) features a beautiful garden with a koi pond.

More than a century old, the San Diego Symphony performs at Copley Symphony Hall, while Broadway/San Diego brings touring shows to the Civic Theatre (1100 Third Ave.), and Spreckels Theatre (121 Broadway) hosts many performing arts events throughout the year.

East Village

The completion of Petco Park (100 Park Blvd.) and the new Central Library (330 Park Blvd.) helped gentrify this once-gritty, now-alive neighborhood east of the Gaslamp.

(FROM LEFT) IAN WHITE, EDWIN SANTIAGO, JOHN DOLE

Gaslamp Quarter

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Shop among feisty fashions at Bloom boutique (660 Ninth Ave.); or nab a pair of new kicks at Blends (719 Eighth Ave.), which sells rare urban footwear, trainers and high-tops.

Then grab a fine California cabernet sauvignon at Bacchus Wine Market (647 G St.).

The area’s burgeoning art scene includes a few notable galleries: the edgy Periscope Project (corner of 15th and K streets) built from stacked shipping cargo containers; and Alexander Salazar Fine Art (640 Broadway), featuring mixed-media work from emerging and mid-career contemporary artists.

Little Italy

A few blocks north of downtown, Little Italy is home to fabulous restaurants, galleries, boutiques and markets dotting the main drag, India Street. Highlights include the popular Bottlecraft (2161 India St.) and new Ballast Point (2215 India St.) craft beer tasting rooms; a handful of small art galleries, such as Meyer Fine Art (2400 Kettner Blvd., suite 104), featuring contemporary art by renowned artists; and trendy boutiques, including Spoil Me Rotten (1501 India St.), offering women’s dresses, blouses, scarves and jewelry.

Take time to explore the streets branching off from India, too. The colorful cottages of the Fir Street Shops include Love & Aesthetics (621 W. Fir St.), stocked with rare artwork, home wares, bath products, jewelry and gift items; as well as Vitreum (619 W. Fir St.), specializing in simple, elegant ceramics. On Cedar, Vocabulary (414 W. Cedar St.) is a chic boutique featuring emerging designers. Running parallel to India Street, Kettner Boulevard forms the spine of the art-and-design district.

A gallery cluster near the corner of Kettner and Kalmia includes Subtext Gallery (2479

Left to right: Downtown’s floating Maritime Museum; sidewalk fronts in Little Italy; the landmark entrance to the Gaslamp Quarter.

Kettner Blvd.), focused on lowbrow and graphic artists. Shop for vintage and modern furniture, art and home accents at @HOM (2310-B Kettner Blvd.). And pop into Kapreeza (1772 Kettner Blvd.), a European lingerie and swimwear shop. Be on the lookout for NoLi Nights, a walkable quarterly event showcasing North Little Italy businesses; enjoy live bands and art performances. Foodies will enjoy roaming the popular Saturday morning Mercato farmers market on Cedar Street (619.233.3769).

Embarcadero

Retail/entertainment destinations include The Headquarters at Seaport District , which houses the Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery (789 W. Harbor Drive, #156), and Seaport Village (see p. 71). The bayside

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boardwalk is ideal for walking to and from the Convention Center. Grab an iced cappuccino at Upstart Crow Bookstore & Coffeehouse (835-C W. Harbor Drive) and head for the Embarcadero Marina Park, which offers bike and jogging trails, basketball courts and picnicking. Continue north along the harbor to Broadway Pier, where you can embark on sightseeing excursions or catch the Coronado Ferry (1050 N. Harbor Drive), which travels across the bay several times daily. Make time to tour the retired USS Midway (see p. 62) aircraft carrier and the floating Maritime Museum (see p. 60). After a day of exploring, get pampered at Spa Velia, located at the base of Harbor Towers (200 Harbor Drive).

For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 70.

For restaurants in this area, see p. 54.

/ gallery gem

➺ Located in the burgeoning Little Italy art and design district, Meyer Fine Art has been offer-

ing contemporary art with credibility and integrity in an unpretentious atmosphere for more than 36 years. The gallery specializes in limited-edition prints, vintage posters (pictured) and other works on paper. Prominent artists such as Salvador Dali, Roberto Matta, Marc Chagall and Pablo Picasso all have lined the walls, along with other ever-changing exhibitions. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, the amicable experts at Meyer Fine Art make art-buying easy and accessible. 2400 Kettner Blvd., Suite 104, Little Italy, 619.358.9512

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EXPLORING

La Jolla

LA JOLLA IS A JEWEL SPARKLING WITH ART, THEATER, FINE DINING, BOUTIQUE SHOPPING AND THE AREA’S BEST OUTDOOR RECREATION.

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Translated literally as “the jewel,” La Jolla is a gem. The upscale village is known for its luxe specialty boutiques, art galleries and fine-dining venues that offer jaw-dropping views of the La Jolla coastline and the many stunning homes overlooking it. Nearby, hike at Torrey Pines and shop in the Golden Triangle.

La Jolla’s stylish streets are lined with high-end boutiques, antique stores and art galleries. Prospect Street and Girard Avenue form the spines of the village shopping district, but don’t be afraid to venture off onto side streets, where hidden gems await, including Barry Lawrence Ruderman Antique Maps (7463 Girard Ave.); the boutique stationery shop Sweet Paper (7660 Fay Ave.); Las Manos del Artesano (7940 Herschel Ave.), a gallery with Latin American folk art; and Tijon Fragrance Lab & Boutique (7853 Herschel Ave.), where you can customize your own perfume.

On Girard, amid national brands like Banana Republic (7841 Girard Ave.), we love women’s apparel boutique Kerut (7944 Girard Ave.), a well-appointed spot run by a stylist. It’s not uncommon to find cupcakes and bubbly awaiting your arrival. Farther down Girard is Adelaide’s (7766 Girard Ave.), a fabulous floral shop that also sells candles, skincare and home accessories; as well as independent bookseller D.G. Wills (7461 Girard Ave.) stocking that rare first-edition.

Back on Prospect Street, a slew of femalefriendly stores welcome shoppers, including locally designed swimwear shop Sauvage (1025 Prospect St.) and Robina (1261 Prospect St.), with chic women’s apparel and accessories. There’s also Westime (1227 Prospect

St.), offering high-end designer watches for both men and women. Also be sure to check out We Olive (1158 Prospect St.), a wine and olive bar featuring olive oil tastings, unique gift ideas and an ocean-view back patio.

The village is also home to many wellrespected art galleries, whose collections range from landscape photography to Picasso canvases. A handful are clustered close together on Girard Avenue, making it easy to hop between them on nights when they all have coordinated opening receptions. Quint Gallery (7547 Girard Ave.) showcases edgy work by national artists like Ryan McGinness, while Madison Gallery (1020 Prospect St.) represents emerging and mid-career artists, as well as collections that include works by the likes of Matt Devine, Jason Sims, Marc Petrovic, Retna and James Verbicky. Joseph Bellows Gallery (7661 Girard Ave.) mounts regular exhibitions of stunning black-and-white photography.

La Jolla Boulevard heads south out of the village toward Bird Rock, where worthwhile boutiques for cutting-edge threads for women include Capricorn (5628 La Jolla Blvd.) and Mimi & Red (5630 La Jolla Blvd.).

Break for coffee at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters (5627 La Jolla Blvd.) or pick up a loaf of gluten-free bread at the charming Julian Bakery (5621 La Jolla Blvd.).

The neighborhood of La Jolla Shores, just a short drive up Torrey Pines Road, is also worth a visit. The wide, flat beach is perfect for swimming and sunning, while the main drag, Avenida de la Playa, is lined with eateries and rental shops with surf and kayak gear.

Arts & Science

The University of Cali­fornia, San Diego (9500 Gilman Drive) is home to one of the best theaters in the region: La Jolla Playhouse. The theater was founded in 1947 by actors Mel Ferrer, Dorothy McGuire and La Jolla native Gregory Peck.

The Stuart Collection, a group of site-specific outdoor sculptures, adds to the artistic setting at UC San Diego. A 24-foot giant teddy bear made of boulders and a 560-foot-long “Snake Path” are among the artworks placed throughout the 1,200-acre campus.

Just north of campus is the Salk Institute for Biological Studies (10010 N. Torrey Pines Road), an architectural masterpiece designed

by Louis Kahn. The scientific research complex was named in honor of Dr. Jonas Salk, who discovered a vaccine for polio and later lived in La Jolla. Tours of campus architecture are available to the public (858.453.4100).

Southwest of campus sits Scripps Institution of Oceanography (8622 Kennel Way) and Birch Aquarium (see p. 60), both among the world’s best ocean-life learning centers.

IAN WHITE

Shops, Galleries & Fun Stops

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In La Jolla Village, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (see p. 60) examines the boundaries of art created since 1950.

Housed in the former home of Ellen Browning Scripps, the museum’s galleries boast an unparalleled ocean view, while Nancy Rubins’ stunning large-scale, nautical-inspired artwork adorns the museum’s west side.

The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (1008 Wall St.) features year-round art exhibitions, jazz and chamber music concerts, and a treasure trove of books and records.

Recreation

La Jolla is paradise for outdoorsy types. The Cove (1100 Coast Blvd.) hosts swimmers, snorkelers and kayakers—try La Jolla Kayak (2199 Avenida de la Playa) for rentals and tours. La Jolla Shores (8200 Camino del Oro) has easy access for scuba divers. Windansea (6800 Neptune Place), immortalized in Tom Wolfe’s The Pump House Gang, is a great surfing break.

Children’s Pool, a small cove next to Ellen Browning Scripps Park, is a place to observe wildlife, particularly the harbor seals that have taken over the area. The seals’ encampment has caused an ongoing community debate: Some residents want to reclaim the cove for a children’s pool; others advocate for the seals.

For a quick bite, oceanview restaurants line Prospect Street and Coast Boulevard.

Torrey Pines

Torrey Pines is just north of La Jolla Village.

There, you’ll find the 2,000-acre Torrey Pines State Reserve, which offers eight miles of hiking trails winding through wind-sculpted pines and wildflowers. Located off Coast Highway 101 between La Jolla and Del Mar,

Left to right: The serene La Jolla coastline; shopping in central La Jolla Village; ocean views from the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.

the reserve was established to protect the nation’s rarest pine tree, the Pinus torreyan.

One of the reserve’s trails leads directly to Torrey Pines State Beach, located on North Torrey Pines Road. The beach, which spans 4.5 miles from Del Mar to the cliffs at Torrey Pines Mesa, is a great place for swimming, boating and fishing. You can also catch these amazing ocean views from up high, via a hang glider or paraglider. The Torrey Pines Gliderport (2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive) offers flights (tandem, too) for novices and extreme adventure seekers.

Adjacent Black’s Beach is a remote, twomile sandy strip known for great surfing—and nude sunbathing (“not officially sanctioned”).

Nearby, Torrey Pines Golf Course gives golfers the ultimate indulgence: two courses with

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stunning ocean views. In 2008, the landmark became one of the only public courses to host a U.S. Open; it’s also the site of the PGA Tour’s Farmers Insurance Open.

Golden Triangle

The area east of La Jolla Village is known as the Golden Triangle, bordered by Interstate 5 on the west, Interstate 805 on the east and State Route 52 on the south. This triangular area includes upscale hotels and fine dining.

The shopping district revolves around Westfield University Towne Centre (see p. 63), which locals shorten to “UTC.” This recently renovated outdoor mall features dozens of eateries, shops and department stores.

For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 71.

For a list of restaurants in this area, see p. 54.

/ sea life

➺ At La Jolla Kayak, discover spectacular sea cliffs, the Seven Caves and abundant marine

life from the unique perspective of a kayak. Suitable for all skill levels, La Jolla Kayak’s expertly guided tours, kayak rentals and stand-up paddleboard rentals make exploring fun and easy.

The Original Kayak Tour is a thrilling, two-hour kayak experience that navigates through stunning scenery and active marine life. Kayakers have been known to spot dolphins, sea lions, leopard sharks and garibaldi. Bike tours and rentals are also available, or add on a snorkel experience to get even closer to La Jolla’s sea life. 2199 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.459.1114

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EXPLORING

Beach Cities

FROM CORONADO TO PACIFIC BEACH, WELCOME TO SOCAL’S MOST SCENIC SEASIDE NEIGHBORHOODS.

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San Diego’s beach cities epitomize quintessential SoCal; they’re diverse, laid-back and full of charm.

Coronado is known for the historic Hotel Del and its pristine beaches; Ocean Beach is a fun, funky community of surfers and hippies; and Mission Bay offers outdoor recreation at its best. Take your pick.

Coronado is an island of small-town quaintness amid San Diego’s big-city bustle. Well, it’s not really an island, though many locals call it that. Coro­nado is actually an ­isthmus, attached to the mainland at the southern end of Silver Strand State Beach.

Though driving there via the iconic Coro­ nado Bridge is always a thrill, it’s also great fun to travel by sea. The Coronado/San Diego Ferry leaves on the hour from downtown’s Broadway Pier between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.

(619.234.4111), while San Diego Water Taxi offers on-call transportation around the bay from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (619.235.8294). Upon arrival, check out the shops at Coronado Ferry Landing (1201 First St.), then rent a cruiser at Holland’s Bicycles (977 Orange Ave.) to explore Coronado’s quaint side streets.

Head south on the main drag of Orange Avenue to find an inviting retail district, with shops like Root 75 Flowers & Home (845 Orange Ave.); Shorelines Gallery (918 Orange Ave.) for custom artwork, jewelry and furnishings; Coronado Taste of Oils (954 Orange Ave.) to sample dozens of flavors of gourmet olive oils and vinegars; and Blue Jeans and Bikinis (971 Orange Ave.) for clothing and swimwear. Pick up a new paperback at Bay Books (1029 Orange Ave.), and pop into The Attic (1011 Orange Ave.) for modern home décor pieces, antique accents and fun jewelry.

Find more boutiques inside the storybook Hotel del Coronado (1500 Orange Ave.), opened in 1888 and a National Historic Landmark. For more on the town’s history, stop by the Coronado Museum of History and Art (1100 Orange Ave.). Other Coronado gems include: Wag’n Tails (945 Orange Ave.) for pet pampering and supplies; Scottish Treasures (916 Orange Ave.) for unique accessories and gifts; Clayton’s Coffee Shop (979 Orange Ave.) for a caffeine fix; and Art & Frames by Wood Gallery (936 Orange Ave.), as well as Emerald C Gallery (1331 Orange Ave.) for art inspiration.

Catch a play at Lamb’s Players Theatre (1142 Orange Ave.), the area’s best ensemble outfit.

Shelter Island / Harbor Island

Shelter Island and Harbor Island aren’t really “islands” either; they’re connected to the mainland and were created nearly 40 years ago with tons of sand dredged from the bay.

Shelter Island, with its many bars, restaurants and nautically themed stores, is the departure point for various sportfishing charters. The area is also home to Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, a 1,400-seat outdoor theater that hosts jazz, blues and pop headliners in warmer months. Nearby Harbor Island has its own, smaller outdoor festival site, Spanish Landing Park, and several bayview restaurants. Both islands offer postcard vistas of the downtown skyline, plus flat paths for walks and bike rides.

Ocean Beach and Point Loma

“O.B.” for short, this neighborhood is truly one of San Diego’s most unique. It’s an endless summer of love in O.B., an aggregation of aging hippies, surfers, ­bikers, artists, ­musicians and other free spirits. “OBceans” possess a strong sense of community and territorial pride best summed up by a oncepopular bumper sticker: “U.S. out of O.B.” The main drag, Newport Avenue, smells of incense and has many shops catering to the O.B. lifestyle, but also plenty of antiques dealers at places like Newport Avenue Antiques (4836 Newport Ave.). Music junkies will love the vintage vinyl at Cow Records (5040 ­Newport Ave.), while Galactic Comics (4981 Newport Ave.) is heaven for graphic-novel fans. The Corner Store (4873 Newport Ave.) is home to an array of shabby-chic furnishings, tea sets, vintage costume jewelry and other home and garden treasures. Just off Newport, Noon Design Shop (4993 Niagara Ave.) has handmade letterpress cards and jewelry.

Wind down the day with a leisurely stroll along the Ocean Beach Pier, which, at 1,971 feet, is one of the longest concrete piers in the ­country. A casual café is situated about halfway down the pier, making for a nice refueling point.

Nearby Point Loma is home to a small but charming array of restaurants and cafés, as

(FAR LEFT) JOE SCARNICI; (RIGHT AND OPPOSITE) EDWIN SANTIAGO

Coronado

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well as the Cabrillo National Monument, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery and military installations. The Cabrillo National Monument (see p. 60) offers panoramic vistas stretching from San Diego to Mexico.

There are also hiking trails, tidepools, a historic lighthouse, a bookstore and museum exhibits about conquistador Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the founder of San Diego.

Mission Beach and Pacific Beach

Two of San Diego’s most popular beaches, Mission Beach and Pacific Beach form an unbroken band of sand that stretches for three miles, from the mouth of Mission Bay to the rocky points of La Jolla. Both are overflowing with restaurants, bars and boutiques.

South Mission Beach is home to serious beach volleyball and bayside basketball games. Farther north, check out the star attraction at the Belmont Park (see p. 60) amusement park: the Giant Dipper, a famously restored 1925 wooden roller coaster.

Another landmark dating back to 1925 is Crystal Pier, at the foot of Garnet Avenue in P.B. This 400-foot-long wooden pier is gated and lined with rental cottages. However, the pier is open to the public during the day and is always popular with fishermen.

The best way to experience this area is to walk along the boardwalk, where peoplewatching is not just encouraged; it’s a must. If the nonstop parade of skateboarders, in-liners, bikers, joggers and walkers gets to be too much, walk across Mission Boulevard to the quieter bayside boardwalk. Garnet Avenue and Mission Boulevard form the backbone of this funky, retro retail district, which boasts dozens of small shops filled with surfing

Left to right: John Lennon mural on Garnet Avenue in Pacific Beach; Cabrillo National Monument’s historic lighthouse; dreamy views from Coronado’s shores.

gear, swimsuits and casual wear. Begin the 10-block shopping stroll where the two main streets intersect, then head east. (Note: These are long blocks.)

First order of business: Find that perfect bikini. SunSplash (979 Garnet Ave.) can help, with stylish swimwear and casual beachwear in a wide array of sizes. For the rest of the outfit, try The Fabulous Rag Boutique (829 Garnet Ave.), a quaint shop on the main drag selling women’s clothing in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Farther up Garnet Avenue is Rusty Spokes Vintage Bicycles (1344 Garnet Ave.), which specializes in antique and classic cycles.

Heading south brings you to Mission Beach, home to popular bikini emporium Pilar’s Beachwear (3790 Mission Blvd.).

G R E AT F I N D

Mission Bay Park

Mission Bay Park is a 4,000-acre gathering spot for locals and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities including running, biking, skating, kite-flying, sailing and boating.

Several sportfishing charters depart daily from Mission Bay, and a variety of watercraft can be rented from nearby shops. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at standup paddleboarding.

The west side of the bay is also home to several resort hotels and world-renowned SeaWorld (see p. 60). Don’t miss the thrilling Shark Encounter and the Turtle Reef exhibition and ride.

For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 69.

For information about restaurants in this area, please see p. 54.

/ happy birthday

➺ Now in its third generation of family ownership, the landmark Bali Hai celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2015. Famous for its temple guards and traditional mai tais, Shelter Island’s iconic bayfront tiki tower offers Polynesian cuisine with a side of stunning water and city views from nearly every seat in the house. The inside décor rivals the outside views with a fascinating collection of more than 100 Polynesian artifacts—from tiki figures to antique tapa cloths to wood weapons—which collectively create a museum-like space to explore while dining. The Sunday champagne brunch is a city favorite. 2230 Shelter Island Drive, Point Loma, 619.222.1181

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EXPLORING

Uptown

HILLCREST, MISSION HILLS, NORTH PARK, SOUTH PARK: ECLECTIC NEIGHBORHOODS FULL OF CULTURE, CHARACTER AND CHARM.

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Hillcrest

The hub of Hillcrest, at the intersection of University and Fifth avenues, is always a buzzing, heavily trafficked scene throughout the day, with cars lined up in both directions and joggers, dog-walkers and coffee-sippers crowding the sidewalks.

Fabulous shopping begins at University and First avenues and runs 12 blocks to Park Boulevard. Shop among 250 herbs, seasonings and gifts at Penzeys Spices (1274 University Ave.); retro urban footwear at Mint (525 University Ave.); and hip men’s fashions and home accents at House Boi (1435 ­University Ave.). Just off the main drag, you’ll find all manner of headgear at the Village Hat Shop (3821 Fourth Ave.). Leave time to peruse 5th Avenue Books (3838 Fifth Ave.) ­and ­Bluestocking Books (3817 Fifth Ave.), whose rustic shelves are lined with out-ofprint and rare tomes.

By night, Hillcrest lights up with restaurants, bars and dance clubs, and a great art-house movie theater, the Landmark (3965 Fifth Ave.).

University Heights and Mission Hills

Northeast of Hillcrest on Park Boulevard lies quaint University Heights, home to ethnic eateries and good shopping at places like Frock You (4121 Park Blvd.), a clothing store

whose helpful staff knows its stuff when it comes to vintage fashion. University Heights also has an astonishing number of cafés for such a small neighborhood, each catering to a different clientele. We love the back patio at quiet, well-designed Monica’s at the Park (1735 Adams Ave.) for a cappuccino break.

The streets of Mission Hills, northwest of Hillcrest, are lined with stately homes, quaint cafés and boutiques. Isabela (1111 Fort Stockton Drive) is an elegant skincare boutique; Emma Jane (928 Fort Stockton Drive) carries feminine women’s clothing; and Maison en Provence (820 Fort Stockton Drive) is stocked with French country home accessories.

Presidio Park, at the western edge of ­this neighborhood, is historically significant as the site of the first European settlement in California (619.692.4918). Scenic trails lead to the neighboring Junípero Serra Museum.

The museum, built in 1929, is a ­replica of the mission erected there in 1769.

North Park

Centered at University Avenue and 30th Street, North Park is San Diego’s newest arts district, thanks in part to the restoration of the historic 1928 North Park Theatre (2891 University Ave.). Gallery-hopping events are held select Saturday nights on and around Ray Street from 6 to 9 p.m.; check out northparkarts.org for details.

The area is also home to dozens of independent clothing and décor boutiques. We love the organic cotton baby clothes and stylish art books sold at Pigment (3801 30th St.), while Mimi & Red (3032 University Ave.) has trendy women’s clothing and accessories.

After dark, North Park comes alive with dozens of bars, hipster clubs, eclectic restaurants and lively coffeehouses.

South Park

About a mile south of University on 30th Street lies the quiet neighborhood known as South Park. Though largely residential, South Park has several great eateries and bars, and is an ideal place to shop for gifts while supporting local independent merchants.

Favorite retailers in this area include The Grove bookstore (3010 Juniper St.), which also has a crafting nook inside; modern home furnishings and design emporium, Progress (2225 30th St.); Make Good (2207 Fern St.), with locally made clothing, home accents and jewelry; and Grant’s Marketplace (2953 Beech St.) for gourmet groceries and deli items.

Spruce up your canine kids at South Bark Dog Wash (2037 30th St.), a staple of the community, known for its “Blueberry Facial” and fun inventory of doggie treats and toys.

For a map of these neighborhoods, see page 69. For a list of restaurants in this area, please see page 54.

(FAR LEFT AND FAR RIGHT) BJARNE G. JENSEN; (SECOND FROM LEFT) AMY K. FELLOWS; BOTTOM RIGHT, TYLER BEACH

Uptown encompasses some of S.D.’s most diverse, artsy and eclectic neighborhoods—including Hillcrest, one of the county’s most progressive areas, as well as North Park, South Park, University Heights and Mission Hills, all of which are filled with Craftsman-style homes, trendy eateries and hipster boutiques.

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Left to right: Presidio Park; a snapshot of University Avenue in North Park; Fifth Avenue in Hillcrest.

G R E AT F I N D

/ retail therapy

âžş Foodies, gift-givers and porch sitters alike will rejoice in the discovery of The Front Porch, a

new flagship specialty store from hospitality entrepreneur Gina Champion Cain (owner of The Patio restaurants) and actress Melissa Scott Clark. Inside the trendy-yet-quaint shop, find an artfully curated blend of gourmet pantry items, kitchen accouterments and cookbooks; as well as uncommon furnishings and antiques alongside an olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting bar.

The 1,950-square-foot boutique lives up to its name, doubling as a charming gathering place where neighbors catch up. 928 Fort Stockton Drive, Suite 101, Mission Hills, 619.377.0430

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EXPLORING

North Coast

DEL MAR, SOLANA BEACH, ENCINITAS, CARLSBAD: THESE CITIES EXEMPLIFY THE GOOD LIFE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA.

➺

Del Mar

Del Mar’s celebrity status began more than 70 years ago, when the oceanside paradise became the home of the Del Mar Racetrack (2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd.). Celebs Bing Crosby and Pat O’Brien helped establish the track—and its track record for hosting the Hollywood elite at the Thoroughbred Club.

Ava Gardner, W.C. Fields, Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Jimmy Durante and Mickey Rooney were among the regulars in the late 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s. Today, racing season runs from mid-July to early September (then returns for the month of November), but fun events are held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds year-round.

Jimmy Durante Boulevard—named for the famous entertainer who lived in Del Mar— paves the way from the track to the heart of the village. The intersection of Camino Del Mar and 15th Street forms Del Mar’s center.

The Del Mar Plaza (see p. 62) has scenic fountains and sweeping ocean views, plus upscale shops like clothing boutiques Gerhard and Peaches en Regalia; Loghman Jewelers, with Italian jewelry and watches; and chains like Banana Republic and Sunglass Hut. There’s more retail along Del Mar’s main street, Camino Del Mar, and the area can easily be covered on foot. The shopping district is lined with shops, including Carolyn’s (1310 Camino Del Mar), with designer resale items, plus several casual cafés and eateries.

More great shopping is a short drive away. East of the fair­grounds, off I-5 on Via de la Valle, is the recently expanded Flower Hill Promenade (2720 Via de la Valle), where shops include trendy women’s boutique Van De Vort, men’s clothier Patrick James and Dallmann Chocolate Boutique.

At the end of the day, walk to Seagrove Park (Coast Boulevard at 15th Street) to enjoy a brilliant sunset. From the hush of the surf you can almost hear the echo of Bing Crosby, singing the famous jingle he wrote in honor of the celebrated track: Where the turf meets the surf, down at old Del Mar ...

Solana Beach

Solana Beach is home to some of the most chic stores in San Diego County. The Cedros Design District begins at South Cedros Avenue and Lomas Santa Fe Drive, easily accessible by the Coaster, the train that runs from downtown San Diego to Oceanside.

More than 50 shops spanning a quartermile feature fashion, home furnishings and antiques. Most of the boutiques on South Cedros are housed in renovated Quonset huts (iron warehouses shaped like a halfcylinder), giving the ‘hood an artistic feel.

Fuel up for your walking tour of the neighborhood at Claire’s (246 N. Cedros Ave.), across from the train station. It’s an eco-conscious café with preferred parking for

electric and hybrid cars. This stretch of Cedros is also home to Susan Street Fine Art, a contemporary art gallery (200 N. Cedros Ave.), and Tobi Blatt (152 N. Cedros Ave.), with women’s clothing from coveted labels.

Cross Lomas Santa Fe to explore South Cedros. We love Cedros Soles (143 S. Cedros Ave.) for the latest footwear; HIS (also at 143 S. Cedros Ave.), a store geared towards the style-minded guy; Bixby & Ball (214 S. Cedros Ave.), with linens, home décor items and other coastal-lifestyle accessories; and Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery (415 S. Cedros Ave., #110). Linger long enough to smell the sweet aromas springing from Mistral (146 S. Cedros Ave.), a small bungalow with soaps and lotions imported from France.

You’ll also find hip home décor and art books at Solo (309 S. Cedros Ave.), and everything for the modern garden at colorsplashed Chicweed (240 S. Cedros Ave.).

Nestled among the retail shops is one of the county’s top live music venues: the Belly Up (see p. 73), a Solana Beach landmark for 40 years and counting.

Encinitas and Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Heading north on 101 from Solana Beach, you’ll pass through the surf community of Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Be sure to take a picture with the infamous “Cardiff Kook” sculpture.

(FROM LEFT) IAN WHITE, LIMELIFE PHOTOGRAPHY, BJARNE G. JENSEN

San Diego’s North County coastal communities have a certain charm that must be experienced firsthand to fully appreciate. Yes, the pace is a bit slower than other areas, but locals prefer it that way. The North Coast’s many quaint pockets offer the best in boutique shopping, gallery hopping and beaches.

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As you continue north approaching downtown Encinitas, you’ll see a unique silhouette among the palm trees. The Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat and Ashram Center (215 K St.), with its lotus blossom–shaped towers, dates back to 1937. A portion of the grounds is open and free to the public. A stroll through the lush, cliffside gardens offers views of surfers at nearby Swami’s Beach (1298 S. Coast Hwy. 101), a popular break for longboarders.

Stock up on gear and surfboards at Hansen’s Surf Shop (1105 S. Coast Hwy. 101).

Up the road, The Lumberyard’s two dozen or so shops include stylish clothier Reign & Clover, modern home-and-garden store Grounded and Chuao Chocolatier, whose gourmet sweets are made from the finest Venezuelan chocolate. Don’t miss DeepFling, with silver jewelry from Scandinavian designers. The Lumberyard also has an array of wine bars, eateries and cafés, many with outdoor seating (937 S. Coast Hwy. 101).

In the center of downtown, the historic La Paloma Theatre (471 S. Coast Hwy. 101) has anchored the district since the 1920s and still hosts concerts and independent films.

Boutiques and restaurants also line the strip. Boasting a sprawling Whole Foods, Pacific Station is also home to Icons boutique, with denim, tees, boho-chic blouses and more (687 S. Coast Hwy. 101).

North Coast Highway 101 runs through sleepy Leucadia, where it’s easy to speed right by gems like Lou’s Records (434 N. Coast Hwy. 101), with its selection of hip LPs and CDs, and Ducky Waddles Emporium (414 N. Coast Hwy. 101), with its excellent collection of books on all things artsy or bawdy.

A great cluster of shops is found at The Gold Coast (466 N. Coast Hwy. 101), whose

Left to right: Views from the Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat; Swami’s Cafe; Ocean House in Carlsbad Village.

tenants include stylish children’s boutique Daisy B. A short drive inland leads to San Diego Botanic Garden, a 35-acre treasure showcasing 3,000 rare and exotic plants.

Carlsbad

Downtown Carlsbad is a picturesque seaside village. Along Carlsbad Village Drive, you’ll find famed local landmark Frazier’s Well (2802 Carlsbad Blvd.), where sea captain John Frazier discovered mineral water back in 1882.

Nearby is Carlsbad Village Faire, a shopping center that is home to several casual eateries and shops. Retail on nearby State Street includes antique stores and shops like Fairen Del (2940 State St.), with an assortment of fine leather goods, shoes, handbags, jewelry and other accessories.

G R E AT F I N D

A short drive east of the freeway on Palomar Airport Road leads to great outlet shopping at Carlsbad Premium Outlets (see p. 62), with brand-name stores like BCBG, Kenneth Cole and Michael Kors.

Continuing on Palomar Airport Road from the outlets will lead you to another cluster of attractions. LegoLand (see p. 60) is 128 acres of kid-friendly entertainment that includes the Sea Life Aquarium. Nearby, the Museum of Making Music (see p. 60) is filled with musical memorabilia. Omni La Costa Resort and Spa (2100 Costa del Mar Road) is home to the Chopra Center for Wellbeing. Two miles south of La Costa is The Forum Carlsbad (see p. 62), an outdoor, Spanish-style mall.

For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 71.

For information about restaurants in this area, please see p. 54.

/ coffee talk

➺The latest concept from Fig Tree Café founder Johan Engman, Café Cantata is named for

the famous Bach composition Coffee Cantata, inspired by the belief that coffee “is more delicious than a thousand kisses.” Boasting only the freshest and finest cups of java, including certified organic, fair-trade custom blends, Café Cantata offers a variety of breakfast dishes, sandwiches and salads perfect for a casual meal or mid-shopping pick-me-up. Order a gluten-free portobello panini with hummus and soak up the rustic atmosphere and rich aromas from one of the tufted leather couches. Flower Hill Promenade, 2670 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.925.7297

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EXPLORING

Old Town

SAN DIEGO CELEBRATES ITS MEXICAN AND SPANISH COLONIAL HISTORY.

➺

Living History & Culture

On the hilltop overlooking Old Town is the site where, in 1769, Padre Junípero Serra established Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá. In 1774, Serra’s mission was moved to a location 6 miles east, but a colony of residents remained there, and the area became known as California’s first permanent European settlement. Today, the Junípero Serra Museum (2727 Presidio Drive) stands on that very same hill, overlooking the festive, historic neighborhood now called Old Town San Diego.

Old Town State Historic Park, a pedestrian-only area spanning six blocks, is home to more than a dozen of San Diego’s earliest buildings—some original, others reproductions—including a general store, Wells Fargo Bank, adobe homes and the first office of the San Diego Union, the city’s oldest newspaper.

Stop in at Rust General Store for some oldtimey candies before checking out Casa de Estudillo, the 1825 home of Spanish aristocrat Don José Antonio de Estudillo. Other historical structures include the recently renovated Cosmopolitan Hotel and Seeley Stable Museum, a reconstruction of the 1850s-era stagecoach stop that now houses a collection of vintage carriages. Park aides lead tours of the sites, leaving from the Old Town Visitors Center in the Robinson Rose building, located on the plaza (619.220.5422).

Adjacent to the plaza, Fiesta de Reyes (2754 Calhoun St.) is filled with restaurants and shops that celebrate Mexican and American history; don’t miss the Urban Seed, which not only has a huge selection of heritage vegetable seeds, but also French antiques and elegant home décor pieces.

Up the hill at Harney and Juan streets you’ll find the Mormon Battalion, which tells the story of the church military unit that came west to help with the Mexican-American War, and Heritage Park, the site of seven restored Victorian buildings that were moved to this site from downtown San Diego after World War II to escape demolition due to modern development. The park also houses Southern California’s first synagogue, Temple Beth Israel, built in 1889.

More historical sites line San Diego Avenue, which leads out of Old Town State Park to the south. Construction on the still-active Church of the Immaculate Conception began in 1868 in an effort to replace the existing adobe structure with brick, but was not completed for 50 years. And visit the reportedly haunted Whaley House, built in 1857, if you dare.

Farther up San Diego Avenue, behind an adobe wall, is El Campo Santo, the city’s first cemetery, established in 1850, and the San Diego Sheriff’s Museum and Educational Center (2384 San Diego Ave.), built 100 feet from where San Diego’s original ­cobblestone

jail once stood. It features exhibits displaying weapons and equipment used by the county’s 28 ­sheriffs over the past 150 years.

The Casa del Rey Moro Museum (2471 Congress St.) is a treasure of African world ­history, with a focus on the Afro-Spanish, Afro-Mexican and African-American heritage in Old Town and California. Afterward, take in a show at the Old Town Theatre (4040 Twiggs St.), home to the Cygnet Theatre Company.

Shopping

Old Town’s many shops offer everything from authentic goods to touristy tchotchkes. You can browse the large collection of Mexican folk art at Miranda’s Court­yard (2548 Congress St.), or shop for women and children’s fashions made from eco-friendly cotton and alpaca at Wandering Sage (2415 San Diego Ave.). Next door, Gourmet Café has an array of chocolate truffles and other sweets.

On the back side of the park, Taylor Street is home to Bazaar del Mundo (4133 Taylor St.), a two-story emporium of ­international folk arts, fashion, jewelry and home décor. Wind down your shopping day at the Café Coyote Esplanade (2461 San Diego Ave.), home to such quaint shops as South American Imports and Old Town Candy Store.

For a map of this neighborhood, see page 70.

For a list of restaurants in this area, see page 54.

(FAR LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO; (RIGHT AND OPPOSITE) ASHOK SINHA; (BOTTOM RIGHT) JOE MABEL.

No trip to San Diego is complete without a stop at historic Old Town, known as the “birthplace of California.” Its charming streets are lined with dozens of iconic landmarks, museums, colorful shops and authentic Mexican restaurants—home to the city’s best handmade tortillas and tastiest margaritas.

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Left to right: Mexican handbags; Old Town’s charming retail fronts; Immaculate Conception Church.

G R E AT F I N D

➺

/ well staged

Founded in 2003, Cygnet Theatre is a leading regional theater company—offering at least six productions each year, ranging from theater classics to Broadway-style musicals. The adventurous and thought-provoking professional performances come to life in the 246-seat Old Town Theatre, complete with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, in the heart of Old Town Historic State Park. A Christmas Carol runs through Dec. 28, followed by Sons of the Prophet, a finalist for the 2012 Pulitzer Prize, running Jan. 15-Feb. 15. Grab a snack at the lobby bar, take a seat and enjoy the show. 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525

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EXPLORING

ART, MUSIC AND PERFORMANCE BLOOM YEAR-ROUND.

➺

Spanning 1,200 acres of lush, beautifully landscaped terrain, Balboa Park is known as San Diego’s “crown jewel,” offering a variety of both cultural and outdoor recreation options for kids and adults alike, not to mention a verdant respite from the bustle of the city’s increasingly metropolitan pace.

Nestled between palm trees and botanical gardens, ornate Spanish Colonial buildings house many of the park’s museums and art exhibits. Several of the buildings were constructed as part of two world fairs: the Panama-California Exposition in 1915–16, and the California-Pacific International Exposition in 1935–36. ­ It can take more than one day to see and enjoy each museum, garden and attraction.

The Visitors Center (619.239.0512) in the House of Hospitality offers a Passport to Balboa Park, allowing admission to any of the park’s museums for one week. (Keep in mind some museums are closed on Mondays.)

Deluxe ­packages include passes to the neighboring San Diego Zoo. Or go high-tech and let the park’s mobile app be your guide.

Arts & Culture

Performing arts abound in the park. The Old Globe Theatre routinely presents superior theatrical talent in world-renowned productions; winter features include the hilarious musical Murder for Two (Jan. 24-March 1), and The Twenty-Seventh Man (Feb. 14-March 15) about cell mates in a Soviet prison in 1952. See pp. 56-57 for detailed theater listings.

Elsewhere in the park, the Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theatre presents whimsical puppet shows, while Spreckels Organ Pavilion houses one of the world’s largest

­ utdoor pipe organs, with some 4,500 pipes. o Free concerts are offered Sundays at 2 p.m.

The park is also home to groups celebrating culture. The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages promotes the heritage of countries around the world by hosting open houses and weekend festivals. Neighboring WorldBeat Center uses art, music, dance and education to celebrate African and indigenous cultures, while Centro Cultural de la Raza is a multidisciplinary center dedicated to the preservation of Chicano/Latino culture.

The park has a vast array of institutions celebrating the visual arts, past and present.

Known for its presentation of eclectic traveling exhibits, the San Diego Museum of Art also has a trove of Renaissance and Baroque works, plus a large Asian collection. The world-class Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) showcases compelling photography and presents films in its state-of-the-art theater. Don’t miss 7 Billion Others—a groundbreaking multimedia exhibit of compelling video portraits from 6,000 individual interviews filmed in 84 countries by 20 directors (Feb. 14-Sept. 27).

The Mingei International Museum is dedicated to folk art, craft and design from around the world, while the Timken Museum of Art is home to the Putnam Foundation’s renowned collection of European and Byzantine art, including exquisite Russian religious paintings.

The San Diego Art Institute’s Museum of the Living Artist presents exhibitions by contemporary local artists every four to six weeks, and the historic Spanish Village Art Center is a collection of 37 studios representing more than 200 artists working in media ranging from sculpture to blown glass; the charming courtyard setting is meant to evoke an Old World town square.

Science & History

Balboa Park’s many non-visual-art museums are a huge draw for children, but most distinguish themselves by crafting exhibitions that also appeal to adult sensibilities.

The San Diego Air and Space Museum salutes aviation with 68 original, reproduction and model airplanes and spacecraft.

The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center has interactive science exhibitions and an IMAX Giant Dome theater. The country’s largest multi-sports museum, the San Diego Hall of Champions has interactive displays inviting sports fans to test their athletic and broadcasting skills. From antiques to hot rods, the San Diego Automotive Museum’s collection illustrates the evolution of the automobile.

The vast San Diego Natural History Museum’s life-sized T-Rex skeleton, fossil exhibits and 3-D theater let visitors explore the natural world via exciting interactive and educational media.

(FROM LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO, LIMELIFE PHOTOGRAPHY, ASHOK SINHA; (BOTTOM RIGHT) COURTESY SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Balboa Park

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Left to right: Museum of Man and Old Globe Theatre; a panda at the San Diego Zoo; Balboa Park’s charming walkways.

G R E AT F I N D

/ natural diversity

➺Opening Jan. 17, Coast to Cactus is the San Diego Natural History Museum’s newest

permanent exhibition. Journey from coast to chaparral in this 8,000-square-foot, $9 million exhibit showcasing SoCal’s biodiverse habitats—one of only 25 hotspots in the world—through hands-on exhibits, live animal displays and innovative media experiences. Crawl inside an oversized mud segment replica to see animals that live in the local tidal flats and how they survive; explore native plants and animals; and watch a seemingly barren landscape spring to life as animals come out to hunt in a multimedia experience. 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.3821

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CL SPEC OS IAL IN EX G J HI AN BITI UA ON RY 4!

Dedicated to the study of anthropology, the San Diego Museum of Man explores cultures of the world, especially the Americas.

The largest of its kind, the Model Railroad Museum boasts scale models and interactive features for children. The San Diego History Center is for visitors of all ages, featuring interactive and engaging exhibits showcasing San Diego’s storied past. At the Veterans Museum & Memorial Center visitors will find military uniforms from World War I, the Vietnam War and the Korean War, as well as maritime paintings by local artists and other displays.

The Marston House (see p. 60), a Craftsman Prairie-style mansion designed in 1905 by noted architect Irving Gill, is a must for history and architecture buffs; the grounds also feature a carriage house and gardens.

Attractions & Gardens

San Diego Museum of Man

INSTRUMENTS OF

TORTURE Limited Engagement

1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 239-2001 | www.museumofman.org

The park’s major attraction is, of course, the San Diego Zoo (see p. 60), with some 4,000 rare and endangered species.

Among the animal residents you’ll find the much-beloved meerkats, Asian and African elephants, monkeys, birds and more. Be sure to stop by Panda Canyon to say hello to the newest giant panda cub, born in 2012.

After visiting the zoo, try your hand at the brass ring game from your perch atop a hand-carved pony on the Balboa Park Carousel. Both kids and grown-ups are welcome on the Balboa Park Miniature Railroad, which takes a three-minute, half-mile trip through 4 acres of the park.

The park also features several gardens, a legacy left by its founding “mother,” botanist Kate Sessions. Complete with ornate fountains and colorful tiling, the Spanishstyle Alcazar Garden, which abuts the Art Institute and Mingei Museum, blooms with 7,000 brilliantly colored annuals. The Japanese Friendship Garden features a Zen meditation garden and bonsai exhibit, while the sunken Zoro Garden has an interesting history: It was designed as a nudist colony during the 1935 California-Pacific International Exposition but is now a habitat for monarch, sulfur and swallowtail butterflies. Also built for the Expo, the Old Cactus Garden has succulents and other exotic plants.

With some 2,100 orchids, ferns, poinsettias and other plants, the Botanical Building is among the world’s largest lath structures; along with its gorgeous Lily Pond, it’s one of the park’s most photographed, scenic and romantic sites.

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Recreation

From hiking and jogging to tennis and bocce ball, you’ll find it in the park. The Balboa Park Activity Center has facilities for badminton, table tennis, volleyball and more, while the Balboa Park Municipal Golf Course offers striking views of downtown and Coronado.

At Texas and Upas streets, on the park’s northeast end, the Morley Field Sports Complex is a haven for disc golf fans and other sports nuts, boasting a pool, velodrome, archery range and bocce court. Check in here for information on the many hike and bike trails through Florida Canyon, a popular workout spot for joggers.

The nearby Balboa Tennis Club is open to the public, with 25 courts and a full-service pro shop, plus lessons and clinics.

The dapper, white-clad members of the San Diego Lawn Bowling Club, which has been around for more than 75 years, play seven days a week near the corner of Sixth Avenue and Laurel Street. Visitors are welcome to join the fun and get a free lesson.

There are also a few leash-free dog parks here, including one at Balboa Drive and El Prado, south of the Cabrillo Bridge, and another at Morley Field, northwest of the tennis courts. The park is among the most dog-friendly public recreational properties of its kind in the world. Expect to see dozens both on and off leash at every turn.

fun

San Diego’s only Giant Dome Theater 100+ Hands-On Science Exhibits

Kid City—just for children 5 and under

whole for the

family

(619) 238-1233 www.rhfleet.org

Open every day with free parking.

Located in beautiful Balboa Park.

Dining

Several casual snack bars and coffee carts can be found throughout the park and inside certain museums. For a sit-down experience, try The Prado, whose lively, colorful interior and charming garden patio—not to mention hearty American cuisine, refreshing salads and exotic South American cocktails—have made it a longtime local favorite. Another popular outpost, The Tea Pavilion at the Japanese Friendship Garden serves tea, noodles and sushi in a casual setting.

Other park dining favorites include Casa 1915 Mexican Grill located in the Casa de Balboa building; Dinosaur Café in the atrium of the San Diego Natural History Museum; Flight Path Grill, an outdoor restaurant at the San Diego Air & Space Museum serving hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza and salad; and the new Panama 66, serving craft beer, cocktails and local fare at The San Diego Museum of Art. A map of Balboa Park is on page 70.

Museums and attractions are listed in the where guide.

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where

the guide WINTER 2015

DINING

COURTESY UNDERBELLY

Top Ramen The long, sleek space at the base of the North Parker is now filled with stylish hipster types slurping noodles like there’s no tomorrow. Order at the counter and pull up a stool at Underbelly, CH Projects’ followup to the Little Italy ramen bar of the same name. The menu is largely the same but boasts a few newer dishes, such as miso ramen and yakitori. Our favorites: the vegetable ramen (pictured), and the Underbelly Ramen, with pork belly, applewood bacon and kurobuta sausage. The no-spoon policy is enforced here, as Underbelly insists guests use chopsticks and/or pick up their ramen bowls with their hands and slurp away. 3000 Upas St., North Park, 619. 487.9909

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Dining SPOTLIGHT

American BANKERS HILL BAR AND RESTAURANT Mismatched antique chairs decorate this casual spot with an urban-industrial vibe. A seasonal menu includes pork tacos and an excellent burger. D (nightly). 2202 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.231.0222. $$$ Map O16 BARLEYMASH This spacious brick-walled sports bar serves burgers, spicy beer-boiled prawns and hearty “Barley pie”; find martinis galore at Ginger’s cocktail lounge downstairs. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 600 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.255.7373. $$ Map Q16 BERTRAND AT MISTER A’S Incredible 12th-floor views and romantic ambiance complemented by fresh, seasonal ingredients. Appetizers range from mac ‘n’ cheese to pan-seared scallops, plus an outstanding wine list. The new brunch menu features creative Bloody Marys. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2550 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.239.1377. $$$$ Map O16

Modern Classic It’s a timeless dining destination always reinventing itself.

Inside the US Grant hotel, the Grant Grill has quietly upped the culinary ante once again with new Chef de Cuisine Sam Burman, who previously worked with Whisknladle Hospitality. Burman has revamped the California cuisine menu to highlight simple, local ingredients that speak for themselves. Starters include the albacore crudo with shaved fennel, Crow’s Pass apples, sea urchin and lime; and the Durham Ranch squab with beluga lentils, bacon and sweet-and-sour beets. For entrées, try the sea scallops or the Steak for Two (pictured), a worthy beast meant for sharing at $100— it’s a 38-day, dry-aged ribeye.

326 Broadway, downtown, 619.744.2077

Guidelines

Restaurants are listed by city on page 54. Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 68-71. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

Index American................................38 Breakfast................................40 California Cuisine.................41 Chinese................................... 43 Desserts................................. 43 Eclectic/Fusion....................44 French.....................................44 International......................... 45

Italian.......................................46 Japanese.................................47 Mexican/Southwestern...48 Seafood............................... 49 Steak..................................... 50 Thai.........................................51 Wine Bars............................52

BROCKTON VILLA An 1894 cottage with a spectacular ocean view. Try the Coast Toast, a French toast soufflé from the breakfast menu. B, L, D (daily). 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.7393. $$ Map W19

HORNBLOWER Celebrate a special occasion or surprise your sweetheart with a three-hour dinner cruise aboard a luxury yacht along San Diego’s stunning waterfront. Enjoy a three-course meal, chilled Champagne and dancing. D (nightly). 970 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.686.8715. $$ Map Q14

BROOKLYN GIRL EATERY This trendy neighborhood joint is known for its complimentary daily popcorn and urban Brooklyn pantry vibe. Try the gnocchi and short rib entrée. L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 4033 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.296.4600. $$$ Map M15

JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN Spicy California cheeseburgers and specialty cocktails served in a fun, casual bayside venue; outdoor patio offers great marina views. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 4990 N. Harbor Drive, Point Loma, 619.226.2103. $$ Map K9

CHART HOUSE Seafood and steakhouse has picturesque coastline location with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Indulge in hot chocolate lava cake for dessert. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2588 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-theSea, 760.436.4044. $$$ Map W22

MARINA KITCHEN RESTAURANT & BAR Eatery inside the San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina hotel serves up modern comfort food in a sleek setting with bay views. Seasonal menu features seafood, steak and pasta dishes, plus salads and shared plates. B, L, D (daily). 333 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.234.1500. $$ Map R16

CRAFT & COMMERCE Gastropub-inspired food such as roasted bone marrow, fried pickles and bacon Cracker Jacks, plus handcrafted cocktails by the city’s top bartenders, local beers and a lively, social bar atmosphere.

L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202. $$$ Map P15 CRAFTSMAN NEW AMERICAN TAVERN This stylish Encinitas watering hole serves up the Devil’s Free Range Chicken, deep-fried Brussels sprouts and Root Beer Cake.

L (M-Sa); D (nightly); Br (Su). 267 El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760.452.2000. $$ Map V22 DICK’S LAST RESORT Buckets of ribs, catfish and crab legs served by a purposefully irreverent waitstaff, plus 66 beers and live music (Th-Sa). A fun, casual hangout in the Gaslamp. L, D (daily). 345 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.231.9100. $$ Map Q16 ECLIPSE CHOCOLATE BAR & BISTRO The region’s leading artisan chocolatier is also a full-service restaurant serving brunch and dinner daily. Sip on craft beers and wines, sample chocolates and pastries, and don’t miss the cheese-studded meatloaf for dinner. B, L, D (daily).

2145 Fern St., South Park, 619.578.2984. $$ Map J12

THE MED La Valencia’s charming, Mediterraneanvilla-style eatery features locally sourced, sustainable dishes such as fried poussin and an ocean-view terrace. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.3741. $$ Map W19 NEIGHBORHOOD This gastropub is a bit snobbish about its condiments (you’ll find no ketchup here), but makes up for it with tasty gourmet burgers, hand-cut sweet potato fries with blue cheese crumbles and around 30 craft brews. L, D (daily). 777 G St., East Village, 619.446.0002. $$ Map Q16 SEA & SMOKE Wood-fired meat, seafood and veggies are the menu stars at this North County spot where sharing plates family-style is encouraged. Inventive side dishes include duck-fat-roasted potatoes, braised-bacon kale and yellow-beet gratin. B, L, D (daily). 2690 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.925.8212. $$ Map X22 SEARSUCKER At this hotspot, Brian Malarkey crafts a bold menu that ranges from a mammoth 32-oz. rib-eye to mini appetizer bites. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 611 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.7327, Map Q16; 12995 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.369.5700. $$$ Map X22

FLORENT RESTAURANT & LOUNGE Housed in the original “Old City Hall” building, Florent features upscale, yet playful, American comfort food created by Top Chef alum Rich Sweeney. Start with the crispy Brussels sprouts and beef sliders; for entreés try the stuffed Jidori chicken and grilled New York strip steak. Plus, updated classic cocktails and plenty of craft brews. Br, D (daily). 672 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.595.0123. $$ Map Q16

SLATER’S 50/50 Design your own gourmet burger, or choose from one of 10 specialty burgers, including the Peanut Butter & Jellousy burger with peanut butter, strawberry jelly and bacon. Signature patty is the 50/50 with ground beef and bacon. L, D (daily); B (Su). 2750 Dewey Road, #193, Point Loma, 619.398.2600. $$ Map J9

HERRINGBONE Expect farm-to-sea American dishes with global influences, handcrafted cocktails and 100-year-old olive trees enhancing the upscale décor. L (M-Sa); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 7837 Herschel Ave., La Jolla, 858.459.0221. $$$ Map W19

SOLACE & THE MOONLIGHT LOUNGE The second of three eateries in Chef Matt Gordon’s upscale-comfort-food empire, this North County favorite focuses on seafood. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 25 East E St., Encinitas, 760.753.2433. $$$ Map W22

Got a sweet tooth that needs satisfying? Try one of the county’s popular dessert outposts—including D Bar San Diego and Extraordinary Desserts—listed on p. 43.

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Dining STACKED “Food well built” is the slogan at this innovative eatery where diners order their meal via an iPad at every table, allowing them to customize their own burger, pizza, salad, mac ’n’ cheese and more as they please.

Plus, a full bar lets you choose your own beverage, too.

L, D (daily). 7007 Friars Road, #356, Fashion Valley, 619.225.7900. $$ Map M16 STATION TAVERN Expect a cool, architectural indoor/ outdoor, family-friendly (and dog-friendly) space with picnic tables, serving up craft beers, cocktails and burgers.

Also try the locally sourced farmers market salad with a side of sweet potato fries. L, D (Tu-Su). 2204 Fern St., South Park, 619.255.0657. $ Map K12 TRACTOR ROOM This dimly lit spot is decked out in hunting-lodge chic, with a game-heavy menu that includes crispy elk ravioli and venison meatloaf, plus craft cocktails.

(Oh, and the corn bread that arrives on the side is enough to satisfy six people.) D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 3687 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.543.1007. $$$ Map N16 UNION KITCHEN & TAP Beer, craft cocktails, boutique wines and tavern-style grub are all on the menu. Choose from 20 rotating taps of mostly local brews to wash down a bison burger or sweet potato poutine. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1108 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.230.2337, Map V22; 333 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.795.9463. $$ Map Q16 URBAN SOLACE Neighborhood joint features updated New American comfort cuisine and an intriguing wine, craft beer and cocktail list. Locals love the warm cheese biscuits and Sunday bluegrass brunch. L, D (daily); Br (Su).

3823 30th St., North Park, 619.295.6464. $$$ Map N17

Breakfast BEACH GRASS CAFÉ A breezy and casually chic eatery by the beach serves up a health-conscious menu of granola, flapjacks, salads and more. B, L, D (daily). 159 S. Highway 101, Solana Beach, 858.509.0632. $$ Map X22 BRIAN’S 24 Old-school clubby spot features a mahogany bar, crystal chandelier and 24-hour dining (midnight brunch, anyone?). Burgers, steaks and chicken ‘n’ waffles, too. B, L, D (daily). 828 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.8410. $ Map Q16 CAFÉ 222 Locals line up in droves for Café 222’s quirky American cuisine and whimsical décor. Popular menu items include the peanut butter waffle with bananas at breakfast; tuna melts, salads and more at lunch. B, L (daily). 222 Island Ave., downtown, 619.236.9902. $ Map R15 THE COTTAGE Housed in a charming turn-of-thecentury home complete with garden patio, the Cottage is hugely popular for breakfast (don’t miss the coffee cake). Sandwiches, salads and burgers at lunch. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Sa). 7702 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.454.8409. $ Map W19 HASH HOUSE A GO GO Huge portions of “twisted farm food” that will make your eyes bulge: egg scrambles and more arrive on massive platters, speared with a giant rosemary branch. Expect a long wait at weekend brunch. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Su). 3628 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.298.4646. $$ Map N16 ISABEL’S CANTINA This cool, casual spot serves health-conscious, bold-flavored Latin and Asian-influenced fare. For breakfast, try the soy-chorizo scramble or blackberry-banana pancakes. B, L, D (daily). 966 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.272.8400. $$ Map H7

barleymash

THE MISSION Acclaimed mini-chain is known for pancakes, French toast, smoothies, breakfast burritos and health-conscious Latin dishes. B, L (daily). 3795 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.488.9060, Map I8; 2801 University Ave., North Park, 619.220.8992, Map J12; 1250 J St., East Village, 619.232.7662. $ Map Q17

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Dining RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE Popular casual spot with a huge selection of mouthwatering flapjacks and other breakfast and lunch fare. Favorites include the baked apple pancake. B, L (daily). 520 Front St., downtown, 619.231.7777, Map Q15; 909 Prospect St. La Jolla, 858.459.8800. $ Map W19 SNOOZE, AN A.M. EATERY This bright, energetic joint features breakfast and brunch faves like eggs Benedict, pancakes, French toast, cocktails, a fun coffee menu and a breakfast pot pie. B, L (daily). 3940 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.500.3344, Map N16; 3435 Del Mar Heights Road, Del Mar, 858.703.5300. $$ Map X22

California Cuisine 1500 OCEAN House-made pastas and adventurous starters with bold, inventive flavors define this specialoccasion spot in Coronado, complete with an intimate ocean-view terrace, beach cabanas and a wine cellar.

D (Tu-Sa). Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.8490. $$$$ Map L10 ARTERRA A favorite power-lunch spot with a seasonal menu, plus a sushi bar and outdoor lounge with fire pits and cabanas. B (daily), L (M–F), D (M– Sa). Marriott Del Mar, 11966 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.369.6032. $$$ Map X22 BLUEFIRE GRILL Omni La Costa Resort’s stylish destination dining spot serves coastal delicacies and seasonal vegetables. Elegant setting with indoor waterfall and outdoor fire pits. D (Tu-Sa). 2100 Costa del Mar Road, Carlsbad, 760.929.6306. $$$ Map T22 CUSP DINING & DRINKS Head 11 stories up at Hotel La Jolla for Mediterranean-influenced California cuisine. Choose from an array of savory small plates; a favorite is the crispy pork belly starter. 7955 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, 858.551.3620. $$$ Map V20 EAT AT THE PEARL Executive Chef Jaison Burke oversees a coastal California menu at EAT at The Pearl, the boutique hotel’s retro-cool eatery. Expect seasonal, local dishes where simple flavors rule; we love the duck breast, gluten-free gnocchi and shrimp ‘n’ grits.

D (M-Sa), Br (Su). 1410 Rosecrans St., Point Loma, 619.226.6100. $$ Map J8 THE FLYING PIG PUB AND KITCHEN This foodieapproved restaurant in Oceanside features farm-totable cuisine focused on Cali-infused American dishes.

Think handmade pasta, organic salads and Duroc pork belly. 626 S. Tremont St., Oceanside, 760.453.2940. $$$ Map S22 GEORGE’S AT THE COVE La Jolla institution comprises three levels (from elegant to casual) of ocean views. Chef Trey Foshee creates seafood, steak and regional cuisine. Mid-level bar is a great happy hour spot. L, D (daily). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244. $$$$ Map W19 GRANT GRILL Expect seasonal dishes with ingredients native to the region—jumbo diver scallops are a signature dish—while Jeff Josenhans crafts his mixology magic behind the bar, all housed inside the historic US Grant hotel. B, L, D (daily). 326 Broadway, downtown, 619.744.2077. $$$$ Map Q16 GREAT MAPLE This upscale “diner” serves well-crafted comfort food and serious drinks. Choose from salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, pasta and flatbread pizzas, but save room for house-made apple pie or maple-bacon doughnuts. B, L (M-F); D (Tu-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 1451 Washington St., Hillcrest, 619.255.2282. $$ Map N17

JAYNE’S GASTROPUB Gastronomy meets pub grub at this stylish, UK-inspired casual eatery in North Park. Don’t miss the Jayne burger, eclectic wines and romantic back patio. D (Tu-Sa). 4677 30th St., North Park, 619.563.1011. $$$ Map J12

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Dining JSIX Modern, recently remodeled restaurant inside Hotel Solamar features seasonal foods inspired by the coastline and area farms, lots of handcrafted elements and wines from Washington to Baja; plus craft cocktails. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 616 J St., Gaslamp, 619.531.8744. $$$ Map Q16

FIND YOURSELF IN SPAIN!

JRDN Hip restaurant and bar at Tower 23 hotel has steak and seafood dishes, plus a full raw bar and happy hour specials. Patio offers boardwalk and ocean views, plus fun people-watching. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 723 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736. $$$ Map H7 JUNIPER & IVY Top Chef star Richard Blais oversees the modernist Cali-American menu loaded with artisanal dishes—from raw seafood, pastas and small plates, to mains such as prime strip loin and local chicken served with English pea gnocchi—and a fun and ambitious cocktail menu. 2228 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.269.9036. $$$ Map P15 KITCHEN 1540 Expect simple, seasonal comfort dishes such as chicken ‘n’ dumplings, shrimp ‘n’ grits, duck breast, escargot tortellini and fried-green tomatoes at this chic spot at the famed L’Auberge Del Mar resort. Ask for a table on the ocean-view terrace. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.793.6460. $$$$ Map X22 LEROY’S KITCHEN & LOUNGE Recognized for its farm-to-table fare, Leroy’s is a comfortably hip locals’ hangout. Executive Chef JC Colon offers a variety of unique seafood, meat and pasta dishes. Favorites include roasted rainbow trout and duck pot pie. L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 1015 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6087. $$ Map L11 MARKET RESTAURANT + BAR Chef Carl Schroeder crafts modern cuisine using local produce, handmade cheeses and locally raised meat. Highlights include the bleu cheese soufflé, market veggie tasting and desserts such as the sinful Meyer lemon-cream crepes. D (nightly). 3702 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.523.0007. $$$$ Map X22 NINE-TEN Inside the Grande Colonial Hotel, awardwinning Chef Jason Knibb creates evolving California cuisine from local, organic ingredients. The Jamaican jerk pork-belly appetizer and the braised short rib entrée are highlights. Exceptional wine list and handcrafted cocktails. B, L, D (daily). 910 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.964.5400. $$$ Map V19 THE PATIO ON LAMONT This popular neighborhood nook in Pacific Beach by owner Gina ChampionCain features craft cocktails, beer and a global menu with California influences. Expect such dishes as the braised pork shank with bacon-and-asiago risotto.

Canine family members are welcome here. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4445 Lamont St., Pacific Beach, 858.412.4648. $$ Map H8 PREPKITCHEN LITTLE ITALY Its stylish second-story locale makes for a fabulous alternative to the Italian eateries in the area. Daily specials include alwayschanging items such as the farmers market flatbread and local halibut as the fresh catch. Menu changes seasonally. 1660 India St., Little Italy, 619.398.8383. $$$ Map P15 STARLITE Dazzling design complements sustainably farmed food and boutique cocktails at this ultra-hip restaurant/bar. Don’t miss the burger on brioche and the signature Starlite Mule. Snag a seat around the main bar or on the back patio. D (nightly), Br (Su). 21+. 3175 India St., Midtown, 619.358.9766. $$ Map O15 TABLE 926 Intimate bistro with cuisine that highlights seasonal, local flavors. Entrées range from fish, chicken and duck to pork tenderloin, lamb ragu and a burger, plus local brews and an extensive wine list. D (TuSu). 926 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach, 858.539.0926. $$ Map H7

RESTAURANT & TAPAS BAR 353 5th Ave, San Diego’s Gaslamp 619.233.5979 Cafesevilla.com

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Dining WAYPOINT PUBLIC This laid-back gastropub has a little something for everyone: 100 international bottled beers; a custom 30-tap system focused on West Coast craft brews; and comfort dishes that range from slow-cooked beef short ribs to Po’ Boy’s Tacos stuffed with fried oysters, fries and jalapeño slaw. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 3794 30th St., North Park, 619.255.8778. $$ Map J12 WHISKNLADLE Chef Ryan Johnston uses local organic ingredients in dishes like roasted bone marrow and chorizo-date fritters. Trendy bar and lounge area serves up exceptional craft cocktails. Outdoor patio is great for people-watching in La Jolla. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1044 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.551.7575. $$$ Map W19

Chinese DEL MAR RENDEZVOUS Upscale Chinese bistro featuring entrées like Mongolian rack of lamb and steak Shangri-La, plus steamed dumplings and sauces made in-house. L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 1555 Camino Del Mar #102, Del Mar, 858.755.2669. $$ Map X22

Authentic New York style Pizzas Cooked In Traditional Open-Flame Ovens

DUMPLING INN This popular hole-in-the-wall serves up some of the finest Chinese cuisine in the city. Menu standouts include the kung pao sea bass, shrimp chow mein, Szechuan pork and deep-fried beef-curry dumplings. L, D (Tu-Su). 4619 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa, 858.268.9638. $$ Map R16 JASMINE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Popular for dim sum, this casual spot also serves authentic Hong Kongstyle seafood, duck and barbecue entrées at dinner. L, D (daily). 4609 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa, 858.268.0888. $$ Map G11 WANG’S NORTH PARK A former JC Penney’s becomes a sophisticated resto-lounge with a wide-ranging menu of Asian dishes and creative cocktails. D (nightly). 3029 University Ave., North Park, 619.291.7500. $$ Map N18

Desserts BAKE SALE BAKERY Satisfy your sweet tooth at this charming café, where all of the breakfast pastries, cookies and other tempting treats—including morning rolls and “Pop Tarts”—are made by scratch daily. For lunch, choose from more savory fare like salads and sandwiches made on homemade bread and croissants. B, L (M-Sa). 815 F St., East Village, 619.515.2224. $ Map Q16

Open daily for lunch and dinner Until 10 pm Sun - Thur Until 11 pm Fri - Sat

D BAR SAN DIEGO This stylish full-service restaurant serves cocktails, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, but save plenty of room for dessert. Known for its pastries and unique creations, D Bar’s dessert menu is exceptional; try the molten cake with a truffle center and the Faux Foster Banana Imposter. 3930 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.3227. $$ Map N16

FREE DELIVERY

(with minimum order) La Jolla, Pacific Beach, UTC, & Sorrento Valley

EXTRAORDINARY DES­SERTS Topped with edible flowers and gold flakes, Karen Krasne’s stunning tarts, cakes and other treats are truly extraordinary. A must-try spot to satisfy that sweet tooth. The menu also features cheese plates, charcuterie, salads, paninis and wine.

Open daily at both locations. 1430 Union St., Little Italy, 619.294.7001, Map P16; 2929 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.294.2132. $$ Map O16

La Jolla 811 Prospect Street (858) 729-9988 www.amicis.com

HEAVENLY CUPCAKE This sweets boutique rotates flavors daily, from banana to mocha chip to gluten-free red velvet. Recent favorites include salted vanilla caramel and “Death by Chocolate.” Cupcakes are handbaked and frosted every morning the old-fashioned way. Open daily. 518 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.235.9235. $ Map Q16 MICHELE COULON DESSERTIER A longtime favorite among La Jolla locals, the renowned Michele Coulon whips up tortes, pies, cakes, confections, homemade jams, breads and quiches using local organic products—all made from scratch. Open M-Sa. 7556-D Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.5098. $ Map W19

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Dining Eclectic/Fusion BALI HAI Tiki oasis has a Polynesian menu, featuring Korean barbecued ribs and wok-fried whole striped bass, plus fabulous bay views and stiff mai tais. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2230 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.222.1181. $$$ Map K9 GANG KITCHEN A 5,000-square-foot warehouse has been transformed by local restaurateur Jon Mangini into an urban, Asian-inspired eatery. The multi-Asian menu is filled with dumplings, noodles and such dishes as Shanghai beef and Szechuan lobster crepes. D (nightly).

345 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.550.1600. $$$ Map Q16 ROPPONGI Cutting-edge eatery with stylish décor, including a wall-sized aquarium and outdoor fireplace.

Its list of Pacific Rim–style tapas is as extensive as it is excellent. We love the spicy albacore-jalapeño sushi roll.

D (nightly). 875 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.5252. $$$ Map W19

French 100 WINES HILLCREST This cozy French bistro and wine den serves Euro-style comfort food, from phyllocrusted sweetbreads to bone marrow with brandied cherries. D (nightly). 1027 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.491.0100. $$$ Map N16 ADDISON Chef William Bradley creates deliriously tasty, elegant dishes from local ingredients with French influences at this ultra-fine-dining restaurant at The Grand Del Mar. D (Tu-Sa). 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar, 858.314.1900. $$$$ Map X22 BO-BEAU Chef Katherine Humphus’ classic French dishes (boeuf bourguignon, chicken fricasse) are served in a cozy and inviting atmosphere in bohemian Ocean Beach. Great spot for conversation and date nights. D (nightly). 4996 W. Point Loma Blvd., Ocean Beach, 619.224.2884. $$$ Map J8 BLEU BOHEME Kensington’s charming bistro, with its candlelit rooms and old-world European ambiance, is known for its traditional French fare—including mussels, coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon. Excellent wine list. L, D (daily). 4090 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.255.4167. $$$ Map I12 CAFÉ CHLOE Locals’ fave offers afternoon “urban tea” (booking required) and bistro cuisine like smoked trout salad, cheese plates and moules frites in a casually elegant setting, complete with patio. B, L, D (daily). 721 Ninth Ave., East Village, 619.232.3242. $$ Map Q17 CAFÉ LA RUE New bistro and bar inside La Valencia Hotel serves up modern twists on classic European cuisine, including pork belly poutine, duck confit and lamb shank pot pie, in a casual atmosphere. Full bar features beer, wine and specialty cocktails. B, L, D (daily).

1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.0771. $$$ Map W19 MARINE ROOM Outstanding nouveau French ­food such as macadamia-pesto-crusted salmon and artisan cheeses by Chef Bernard Guillas in an unparalleled oceanfront location. D (nightly). 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222. $$$$ Map W20 MILLE FLEURS This über-romantic, fine-dining restaurant is a classic date spot. The cuisine is creative, updated French/California (think: escargot and whole Dover sole meunière). L (Tu–F), D (nightly). 6009 Paseo ­Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.756.3085. $$$$ Map W23 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE Chef ­Jeffrey Strauss brings an imaginative flair to his ­country French–influenced American menu in a quirky, casually elegant setting near the racetrack. L (F), D (nightly). 514 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.792.9090. $$$$ Map W22

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BEFORE YOU FLY, SURF. www.whereSD.com Discover timely information on current events, restaurants, sights and attractions on the WHERE Magazine website.

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Dining THE SMOKING GOAT This cozy neighborhood bistro serves up French and American cuisine with a countryside flair. Expect such dishes as the braised prime short ribs and stuffed banderra quail. D (Tu-Su). 3408 30th St., North Park, 619.955.5295. $$$ Map J12

Fresh Fish • Prime Rib Hot Chocolate Lava Cake Relax in an atmosphere of comfortable elegance while you savor the culinary delights that make Chart House legendary.

FANTASTIC HAP P Y HOUR 2588 South Coast Hwy 101 Cardiff, CA 92007 760.436.4044 chart-house.com

Spectacular Waterfront Dining An island-inspired menu featuring an eclectic mix of fresh seafood, mouthwatering steaks, new wave sushi and more.

TAPENADE Chef Jean-Michel Diot’s traditional preparations incorporate Mediterranean flavors from regions beyond France. Decadent and savory desserts as well as vegetarian options. L (Tu–F), D (nightly). 7612 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.551.7500. $$$ Map W19

International ALCHEMY Comfort food with an international twist, using regional, sustainable ingredients—plus monthly vegetarian tasting menus—in a low-key neighborhood setting. We love the quinoa burger and farro risotto.

Bacon-infused vodka in the Hail Mary is a brunch highlight. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1503 30th St., South Park, 619.255.0616. $$$ Map K12 BERTA’S LATIN AMERICAN Latin American specialties can be sampled via generously apportioned tapas in this little Old Town cottage. Entrées like Brazilian vatapá should not be missed. L, D (Tu–Su). 3928 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.295.2343. $$ Map N13 CAFÉ SEVILLA A celebrated staple of the Gaslamp, Sevilla still serves up the same Spanish tapas, seafood specialties and flamenco and salsa lessons that have made it a longtime local favorite. D (nightly). 353 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.5979. $$$ Map R16 CHOPAHN Enjoy authentic Afghan cuisine including aushak (steamed dumpling filled with leek and onion) and an array of California wines in a serene setting just off the Gaslamp’s crowded main drag. L (W-Su), D (nightly). 750 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.236.9236. $$$ Map R16 COSTA BRAVA Coastal eatery serves Spain’s greatest hits, from jamón iberico to paella to tapas to sangria. Live music throughout the week. L, D (daily). 1653 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.273.1218. $$$ Map H8 MONSOON Authentic Northern Indian cuisine in a chic environment. Bounteous lunch buffet; entrées include Bangalore masala and lamb curry. Signature cocktails and wines by the glass. L, D (daily). 729 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.234.5555. $$$ Map Q16 THE PRADO The Prado’s dramatic garden patio is the perfect setting for a drink or a bite after sightseeing in Balboa Park. The eclectic American menu is spiked with Latin/Italian flair. L (daily), D (Tu-Su). 1549 El Prado, House of Hospitality, Balboa Park, 619.557.9441. $$$ Map O17

1201 FIRST STREET CORONADO FERRY LANDING 619.437.4474 ONLINE RESERVATIONS AT PEOHES.COM

3 hour parking validation when you dine with Peohe’s

“The Pinnacle of Pancakes” -San Diego Magazine

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM 520 Front Street Downtown San Diego (just South of Market) 619-231-7777

909 Prospect Street La Jolla (between Girard and Fay) 858-459-8800

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EL Q’ERO A rare Peruvian restaurant in North County, featuring regional classics such as lomo saltado and the signature beverage, chicha morada, made from purple corn. Perfect for a cozy, casual dinner. L (Tu-Sa), D (M-Sa). 564 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.753.9050. $$ Map V22 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE Salads, burgers and specialties like fish ‘n’ chips rule the menu at this New Zealand-inspired eatery, whose decor is highlighted by sheep grazing upside-down on the ceiling in the main dining room, as well as a generous dining porch. Weekend brunch includes chicken ’n’ waffles and sangria. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1557 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.546.0444. $$ Map P15 REI DO GADO Brazilian-style steakhouse serves succulent mesquite-cooked beef and pork, brought tableside on skewers until you tell them to stop. L, D (daily). 939 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.8464. $$$ Map Q16 SOLTAN BANOO Eclectic, casual Persian restaurant featuring lamb, beef, vegan and curry dishes with fragrant basmati rice. L (daily), D (nightly). 4645 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.298.2801. $$ Map M18

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Dining Italian ACQUA AL 2 Sister restaurant to a like-named establishment in Florence, Italy, this spot (a Padres player favorite) serves fresh, Tuscan-style pastas, seafood and steaks in a bistro-style setting. L (M–F), D (nightly). 322 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.230.0382. $$$ Map Q16 AMICI’S EAST COAST PIZZERIA Traditional New Yorkstyle thin crust pizzas are served fresh out of the brick oven here; plus seasonal salads and pasta dishes. Choose from classics like the Margherita or create your own pie (sizes range from 7-15”). L, D (daily). 811 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.729.9988. $$ Map W19 ALEXANDER’S Romantic neighborhood eatery known for its darling back patio, white-on-white décor, traditional pasta dishes and its White Room pizza with chicken and pesto. D (nightly). 3391 30th St., North Park, 619.281.2539. $$ Map J12 ARRIVEDERCI Charming Hillcrest restaurant with sidewalk seating draws locals for its daily gnocchi. Sandwiches, pizzas, salads and wines also available. L, D (daily). 3845 Fourth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.6282. $$$ Map N16 BENCOTTO This mod spot in the Q building earns raves for simple but well-executed create-your-own pasta dishes and other Italian specialities. L, D (Tu-Su). 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.450.4786. $$$ Map P15 BICE Milanese authenticity from Chef Mario Cassineri in the heart of downtown; don’t miss the cheese and salumi bar. Great cocktails, too. D (nightly). 425 Island Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.BICE. $$$ Map Q16 BUONA FORCHETTA The wood-fired oven named “Sofia” takes center stage at this cozy corner eatery known for its authentic Neapolitan pizza, house-made pastas and tiramisu. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 3001 Beech St., South Park, 619.381.4844. $$ Map K12 CUCINA URBANA Crowded, chic hotspot features house-made pastas, pizzas, farm-to-table dishes, houseinfused cocktails and wine shop. L (Tu-F), D (nightly). 505 Laurel St., Bankers Hill, 619.239.2222. $$$ Map O16 CUCINA ENOTECA Located in the Flower Hill Promenade, this sister location of Cucina Urbana features a rooftop patio and a Cali-Italian menu packed with organic, sustainable antipasti, salads, pastas (even gluten-free) and artisanal pizzas; plus a retail wine shop. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 2730 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.704.4500. $$$ Map X22

Fresh Fish. Flown in Daily.

Sleek and sophisticated, The Oceanaire provides the perfect setting to enjoy an unrivaled atmosphere where you will indulge in tantalizing chef creations, exceptional wines and exquisite desserts.

DAVANTI ENOTECA Lively hotspot serves rustic Italian shareable plates like mascarpone polenta, plus pasta, pizza and salumi. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1655 India St., Little Italy, 619.237.9606, Map P15; 12955 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.519.5060. $$$ Map X22 IL FORNAIO Authentic Italian recipes including excellent pasta, pizza and regional specialties paired with handmade breads. Coronado location has great bay views of the downtown skyline. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1555 Camino Del Mar #301, Del Mar, 858.755.8876, Map X22; 1333 First St., Coronado, 619.437.4911. $$$ Map L10 ISOLA PIZZA BAR Modern, casually elegant Italian restaurant and bar featuring a romantic back patio, front sidewalk patio and delicious hand-tossed pizzas (get the funghi pizza) baked in a stone wood-burning oven; plus pastas, antipasti and boutique wine list. L, D (Tu-Su). 1526 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.4230. $$$ Map P15 JACK & GIULIO’S Known for its scampi, spaghetti and meatballs, and other traditional dishes, this Old Town Italian spot is a local favorite. Excellent wines for pairing. D (nightly). 2391 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.294.2074. $$$ Map N14

Gaslamp District • 400 J Street • (619) 858-2277 theoceanaire.com • Reserve your table today.

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Dining MONELLO The vibe is casual-glam, with the menu focusing on Milanese street food—pizzas, flatbreads, gelato, a daily aperitivo from 4-7 p.m. with hosted nibbles from the chef, and its signature vermouth. B, L, D (Tu-Su). 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.501.0030. $$$ Map P15 OLD VENICE Local favorite boasts easygoing, candlelit atmosphere, white-on-white décor and Italian cuisine with Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy dishes like the spicy Roma shrimp and chicken picatta. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 2910 Cañon St., Point Loma, 619.222.5888. $$$ Map K8 PIATTI Delicious pastas and other Italian faves near the ocean in La Jolla Shores. Elegant and family-friendly, with a quaint patio. L, D (daily); Br (Sa–Su). 2182 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.454.1589. $$$ Map V20 PIZZERIA MOZZA Celeb Chef Mario Batali brings his popular L.A. restaurant to The Headquarters at Seaport District. Signature artisanal pizzas are wood-fired in one of two wood-burning ovens, with fresh ingredients and interesting combinations, such as egg, bacon and potato, or (when in season) squash blossom, burrata and tomato. L, D (daily). 789 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.376.4353. $$ Map K11 PO PAZZO Italian for “a little crazy,” the menu at this Little Italy spot goes way beyond pasta, to steaks, seafood, veal and more. L, D (daily). 1917 India St., Little Italy, 619.238.1917. $$$ Map P15 TRATTORIA FANTASTICA Popular eatery serving Sicilian fare in a casual setting, with a charming patio in the back. Specialties include wood-fired pizza and red wine osso bucco. B, L, D (daily). 1735 India St., Little Italy, 619.234.1735. $$ Map P15 TRATTORIA I TRULLI Superb pasta and sauces in a rustic setting featuring more than 100 wines. The créme brûlée shouldn’t be missed. L, D (daily). 830 S. Coast Hwy. 101, #100, Encinitas, 760.943.6800. $$ Map V22

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SEAFOOD GRILL

C A S U A L , M O D E R AT E LY P R I C E D

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LU N C H , D I N N E R , H A P P Y H O U R

VIVACE Marvelous Northern Italian cuisine with a California twist made fresh using organic ingredients at this gorgeous restaurant at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. D (M-Sa), Br (Su). 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad, 760.603.6999. $$$$ Map U22 VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE Italian favorites such as spaghetti alla carbonara, chicken piccata and antipasti; plus Prime steaks, seafood, veal, salads, dessert and a wellrounded wine list—all coupled with elegant décor, cozy piano bar and ocean views. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1300 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0946, Map L10; 2943 State St., Carlsbad, 760.434.2500. $$$ Map T22

Japanese

come in

get hooked

Featuring seafood classics, salads, steak, pasta dishes, and more!

Full bar, patio dining, Kids LiveWell menu, and vegetarian and gluten-free options

O N G L O R I E T TA B AY, C O R O N A D O NEXT TO THE HOTEL DEL CORONADO 1 7 0 1 S T R A N D W AY · 6 1 9 4 3 5 0 1 5 5 · B L U E W AT E R G R I L L . C O M

AZUKI SUSHI Seemingly a hole in the wall from the street view, but inside lies a charming eatery and sushi bar with an airy back patio. Excellent, expertly prepared sushi and specialty rolls. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2321 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.238.4760. $$$ Map O16 BLUE SMOKE SUSHI LOUNGE Fashion Valley Mall’s stylish new eatery features signature sushi rolls and tapasstyle Japanese dishes in a modern dining environment; plus wine, beer and sake. L, D (daily). 7007 Friars Road, Suite 336, Fashion Valley, 619.291.7711. $$ Map M16 BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR High-style design meets modern Japanese cuisine. Yakitori-skewered meats, seafood and veggies are charcoal-fired on a robata grill; plus sushi and Japanese whiskey. L, D (daily). 2958 Madison St., Carlsbad, 760.434.4959. $$$ Map T22 CAFÉ JAPENGO Bustling atmosphere attracts a hip after-work crowd to this upscale spot specializing in artistic sushi and cocktails. L (M–F), D (nightly). 8960 University Center Lane, La Jolla/Golden Triangle, 858.450.3355. $$$ Map T21

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Dining HARNEY SUSHI Find award-winning sushi and specialty rolls with a molecular gastronomy twist at this groovy local mini-chain, where live DJs spin nightly.

L (M-F), D (nightly). 3964 Harney St., Old Town, 619.295.3272, Map J10; 301 Mission Ave., Oceanside, 760.967.1820. $$ Map S22 NOBU After conquering L.A., New York, Miami, London and Vegas, celeb Chef Nobu Matsuhisa brings his brand to the Hard Rock Hotel. The miso black cod is a house specialty. D (nightly). 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.814.4124. $$$$ Map Q16 SHINO SUSHI + KAPPO A simple, modest sushi nook focusing on authentic, superior-quality sushi versus fussy creations. Try the seared hirame with walnuts, fried garlic and citrus; as well as the daily specialty rolls. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 838 W. Ash St., Little Italy, 619.255.2527. $$$ Map P16 SUSHI ON THE ROCK This raucous sushi bar is ideal for the fun-seeker who appreciates rock music and a high-energy atmosphere with creative rolls and fresh catches. L, D (daily). 1025 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.3208. $$$ Map W19 TAKA Stylish, upscale sushi bar with inventive Asian fusion dishes, such as miso black cod and oysters dynamite, on and off the menu. D (nightly). 555 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.0555. $$$ Map Q16 UNDERBELLY Build your own noodle creations from toppings such as bacon-wrapped mushrooms, beef brisket and kimchi octopus—and add a side of steamed pork buns—at this hip, casual ramen bar. L, D (daily). 750 Fir St., Little Italy, 619.269.4626, Map P15; 3000 Upas St., North Park, 619. 487.9909. $$ Map J12 ZENBU Innovative sushi rolls and sashimi crafted from line-caught fish brought in by the owner’s personal fleet of fishing boats. Ask the staff about special off-the-menu rolls. D (nightly). 2003 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff-by-theSea, 760.633.2223. $$$ Map W22

Mexican/Southwestern EL AGAVE Upscale Mexico City-style cuisine with exotic dishes like cuitlacoche tlacoyo on blue corn tortillas; plus 2,000 tequilas available to sample. L, D (daily). 2304 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.220.0692, Map M14; 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.793.0758. $$$ Map X22 ALFONSO’S A La Jolla institution since 1971, Alfonso’s offers great people-watching from the sidewalk terrace.

Family recipes include the carne asada. L, D (daily).

1251 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.2232. $$ Map V19 BARRIO STAR Self-dubbed as “Mexican soul food,” this trendy eatery serves up healthful Latin Americaninfluenced dishes, including tacos, bowls, tortilla soup and chipotle chicken wings. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2706 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.501.7827. $$ Map O16 THE BLIND BURRO Sustainable, Mexican street food with a modern edge, served in an urban-industrial cantina with rustic touches. Don’t miss the mole chicken tacos and the zesty Baja ceviche. L, D (daily). 639 J St., East Village, 619.795.7880. $$ Map Q16 CAFÉ COYOTE South-of-the-border classics in a lively setting right in the center of Old Town. Choose from more than 100 tequilas in your margarita to wash down the enchiladas suizas and addictive tortilla chips. B, L, D (daily). 2461 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.291.4695. $$ Map M14 CANDELAS Find tequila prawns flambé over ahi tuna and Mexico City-inspired dishes at this romantic nouvelle Mexican spot. D (nightly) at both locations; Br (Su), L (M-F) in Coronado only. 416 Third Ave., downtown, 619.702.4455, Map R16; 1201 First St., #115, Coronado, 619.435.4900. $$$ Map L10

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Dining

f

PRIME STEAKS. LEGENDARY SERVICE. Fine Wine • Private Dining • Exceptional Menu

EN FUEGO Lively Mexican restaurant and bar with traditional dishes such as empanadas, tamales and seafood; plus mojitos and margaritas. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551. $$ Map X22 MIGUEL’S COCINA This family-owned restaurant chain dates back to 1982. Each location has its own breezy vibe, but all serve Miguel’s seriously addictive queso dip.

L, D (daily); Br (Su, also Sa in Coronado). 2912 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.2401, Map K9; 1351 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.4237, Map L10; 2444 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.298.9840. $$ Map N13 OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFÉ This Old Town staple is famous for its handmade tortillas, which you can see being made fresh daily through the restaurant’s front window. A festive atmosphere and traditional Mexican dishes await inside. B, L, D (daily). 2489 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.297.4330. $ Map N13 PUESTO The taco-laden menu boasts organic ingredients. Favorites include the potato soy chorizo taco, the filet mignon taco and the lobster taco with black beans and crispy onions. Plus specialty cocktails, beer, wine and an array of high-end tequila and mezcal. L, D (daily). 789 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.233.8880, Map K11; 1026 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.1260. $$ Map W19

Seafood The Harbor Club • 285 J Street • 619-696-3369 mortons.com Stacked_WherMag_Ad:Layout 1 1/23/13/sandiego 11:58 AM Page 1

BLUE POINT COASTAL CUISINE Enjoy Californiastyle seafood and fresh oysters, as well as blue crab and white truffle mac ‘n’ cheese. Hip martini bar with plenty of specialty cocktails and decadent desserts, too.

D (nightly). 565 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.6623. $$$$ Map Q16 BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE SEAFOOD GRILL Located right over the water in the historic former boathouse of the Hotel Del Coronado, this recently opened, classic fish house features fresh, sustainable seafood, housemade chowders and an oyster bar serving raw oysters and clams on the half shell. L, D (daily). 1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619.435.0155. $$ Map L10

THE NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION

THE BRIGANTINE Popular chain with a rollicking happy hour, steaks and chops is known for its fish tacos, swordfish and oyster bars. L, D (daily); Br (Su at Del Mar and Coronado). 2725 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.2871, Map K8; 3263 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.481.1166, Map X22; 1333 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.4166. $$ Map L10 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD Find seafood classics like shrimp cocktail, ahi tartare and lobster bisque, plus 28-day-aged Prime center-cut steaks. The La Jolla locale boasts beautiful views of the La Jolla Cove and coastline; while the new downtown flagship features live jazz nightly. D (nightly). 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500, Map W19; 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.615.0281. $$$$ Map Q15 FISH 101 Small, casual eatery serves up sustainable, seasonal catches and shellfish. Mains range from both grilled and fried fish plates to sandwiches to an Angusbeef burger. Plus salads, daily oyster selection and, for dessert, soft-serve ice cream. L, D (Tu-Su). 1468 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.943.6221. $$ Map V22 THE FISH MARKET/TOP OF THE MARKET Casual dining includes seafood, sushi, an oyster bar and panoramic bay views. Upstairs: Top of the Market features fine seafood and an expanded wine list. L, D (daily). 750 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.232.3474, Map Q15; 640 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, 858.755.2277. $$ Map W22

Fashion Valley Next To Valet 7007 Friars Rd, San Diego, CA 92108, 619-225-7900

HUMPHREYS RESTAURANT Yacht-club views with bayside seafood like sauteed Georges bank scallops and pepper-crusted king salmon. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. $$$ Map K8

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Dining IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER Dine on seafood-focused plates, such as lobster rolls, daily fresh catches and fried oyster sliders, and sip on custom cocktails at this raw bar, bakery and restaurant. Raw bar stays open till midnight (till 2 a.m. F-Sa). L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1654 India St., Little Italy, 619.269.3033. $$$ Map P15 ISLAND PRIME Seafood, steak, salads, cocktails and one of the city’s best views looking back at the skyline. Adjacent C Level Lounge on the spacious deck is popular with the after-work crowd. L, D (daily). 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.298.6802. $$$ Map J10 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S Stylish seafood chain is located in the Omni Hotel. Fresh catches include some local selections like swordfish and albacore from nearby Catalina Island. B, L, D (daily). 675 L St., downtown, 619.645.6545. $$$ Map Q16

TAKE YOUR THIRST TO NEW HEIGHTS Raise your glass and sip in style at the Top of the Hyatt sky lounge in downtown San Diego. Located on the 40th floor of the tallest waterfront hotel on the West Coast, you’ll enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows and dramatic panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Coronado Island and beyond.

Visit this must-see destination from 3:00 PM to 1:30 AM, open 7 days a week. Visit manchestergrand.hyatt.com or call 619 232 1234 for more information.

THE OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM Retro oceanliner design features a bustling cocktail scene with oyster bar. (Try a dirty vodka martini with a selection of oysters on the half shell.) Market-fresh seafood and regionally inspired dishes star on the daily-changing menu. D (nightly). 400 J St., Gaslamp, 619.858.2277. $$$ Map Q16 OSETRA Indulge in caviar, vodka and oysters at this progressive eatery, whose interior is defined by a three-story wine tower. Prime-aged meats are also on the menu. D (nightly). 904 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.1800. $$$ Map Q16 PACIFIC COAST GRILL Reopened as a new restaurant plopped literally right on the beach in Cardiff, Pacific Coast Grill epitomizes casual-chic coastal dining. Locals love the lobster tacos, and the view is the stuff of California dreams. 2526 Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-theSea, 760.479.0721. $$$ Map V22 PACIFICA DEL MAR Upscale, ocean-view, Asian fusion spot attracts a power crowd with mustard catfish and sugar-spiced salmon. Visit the vodka bar with more than 160 selections. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.0476. $$$ Map X22 PEOHE’S Tropical décor with spectacular water views and Pacific Rim plates like crispy wok-fried whole bass and fire shrimp. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1201 First St., Coronado, 619.437.4474. $$$ Map K10 POSEIDON RESTAURANT Its beachfront deck offers a relaxed dining experience day or night. Dinner entrées such as bone-in rib-eye rubbed with rosemary and Kona coffee; Mediterranean seafood linguini; and ginger-pesto day boat scallops make up the contemporary, eclectic menu. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1670 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.9345. $$$ Map X22 SALLY’S This marina-facing venue at the Manchester Grand Hyatt is one of San Diego’s best-kept secrets.

The seafood-heavy menu includes fresh creations such as diver scallops and crab cakes with tomato relish and avocado aioli. Makes for a great power lunch spot along the waterfront. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1 Market Place, Embar­cadero, 619.358.6740. $$$ Map Q15

Steak COWBOY STAR With barstools upholstered in cowhide, this stylish downtown steakhouse is decked out in Old West adornments. Don’t miss the buttermilk-fried sweetbreads. Excellent meat selections and well-crafted cocktails. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 640 10th Ave., East Village, 619.450.5880. $$$ Map Q17 DONOVAN’S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE The power crowd noshes on huge portions of prime steaks, chops and seafood paired with award-winning wine in a sophisticated atmosphere. D (nightly; M-Sa at La Jolla). 4340 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.450.6666, Map T21; 570 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.9700. $$$ Map R16

MANCHESTER GRAND HYATT SAN DIEGO 1 Market Place San Diego, CA 92101

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Dining FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Upscale steakhouse with Prime steaks, seafood, hearty side dishes, classic desserts and an acclaimed wine list (with more than 100 choices by the glass). Elegant, sophisticated ambiance with romantic lighting, plus exceptional service. D (nightly). 8970 University Center Lane, La Jolla, 858.535.0078, Map T21; 380 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.1155. $$$$ Map Q16 FOGO DE CHÃO Meat is king at this expansive Brazilian steakhouse where gaucho chefs serve 16 cuts of grilled meat via continuous tableside service. Plus a gourmet salad bar, traditional side dishes and extensive wine list.

L (M-F), D (nightly). The restaurant also just launched a happy hour menu with smaller bites. 668 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.0500. $$$ Map Q16 GREYSTONE, THE STEAKHOUSE Prime steaks, seafood (try the Dover sole prepared tableside) and pastas in a great downtown location. Beefy menu includes filet mignon potstickers, Kobe carpaccio and more. D (nightly). 658 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.0225. $$$ Map Q16

The Restaurant That Never Sleeps

®

Downtown San Diego’s Only Full-Service 24-Hour Restaurant $9.99 Lunch Specials: Mon – Fri /11 am – 4 pm

LOU & MICKEY’S Chophouse with a mid-century feel features Prime steaks, chops and seafood, plus martinis shaken tableside and 350+-item wine list.

L, D (daily). 224 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.237.4900. $$$ Map Q16 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE USDA Primeaged beef, seafood, an excellent wine list, chilled cocktails, decadent desserts, crisp white linens and great service at the edge of the historic Gaslamp Quarter. D (nightly). 285 J St., downtown, 619.696.3369. $$$$ Map Q16 VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD, STEAK & CHOP HOUSE Italian-influenced chop house features steaks, chicken, veal, fresh catches, oysters (baked and on the half shell), hearty salads and an array of fresh pastas such as the classic capellini checca—all served up with breathtaking beach views. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3878 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, 760.434.2580. $$$ Map T22 THE WELLINGTON STEAK AND MARTINI LOUNGE Grab an old-school steak and martini at this intimate, sexy supper club and chophouse in Mission Hills, also known for its wild venison and namesake Beef Wellington dishes. D (Tu-Sa). 729 W. Washington St., Mission Hills, 619.295.6001. $$$ Map N15

Thai

Daily Happy Hour: 4 pm – 7 pm / Full Bar Available

828 6th Avenue (between E & F) (619) 702-8410 t www.Brians24.com

LOTUS THAI Elegant bamboo décor and modern Thai cuisine at two locations—serving up sophisticated, authentic dishes honoring regional recipes from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and south Thailand. Specialties include Choo Chee pork chops and roasted half-duck curry. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3761 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.8272, Map N16; 906 Market St., East Village, 619.595.0115. $$ Map Q17 PLUMERIA VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT This casual Thai eatery has even hardcore carnivores going vegan, if only for a meal. Gobble up the mock chicken and marinated tofu satay skewers while dining under sparkling chandeliers surrounded by subtle floral décor. 4661 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.269.9989. $$ Map M18 RAMA Traditional Thai in a stylish, exotic setting (check out the waterfall in the back room). Specialties include the Crying Tiger, with thinly sliced filet mignon.

L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 327 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.501.8424. $$ Map Q16 SAFFRON San Diego’s first authentic Thai restaurant is known for its saffron-marinated chicken, noodles, satay and healthy approach to traditional dishes. Quick-service order counter, reasonable prices and super-casual ambiance. L, D (daily). 3731 India St., Mission Hills, 619.574.7737. $ Map J10

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Dining SPICE & RICE THAI KITCHEN Local favorite offers creative twist on Thai in specialties like Panang curry duck and spicy chili halibut. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 7734 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.0466. $$ Map W19 TASTE OF THAI Delicious Thai food in a charming space with a sidewalk patio fronting busy University Avenue. Try the Tom Yum soup and yellow curry with spicy fried rice, followed by the fried bananas with coconut ice for dessert. 527 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.291.7525. $$ Map N16

Great food

Wine Bars COUNTERPOINT Ultra-friendly neighborhood wine bar serves artisan cheeses, salads, burgers, seasonal entrées, weekend brunch, craft beer, international wines—by the bottle and glass—and custom cocktails.

Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 830 25th St., Golden Hill, 619.564.6722. $$ Map Q18 FINCH’S BISTRO & WINE BAR An intimate escape from the daily bustle of surrounding La Jolla, this lowkey hidden gem offers a great selection of wines by the glass, live music and a moderately priced menu of both small plates and bistro-style dishes. 7644 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.4056. $$ Map Q15 THE GRAPE San Diego’s original wine bar features an excellent wine list plus an array of artisanal cheeses, breads and antipasti. Casual, eclectic setting. Open nightly at 5 p.m. 823 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.238.8010. $$ Map Q15

Live Music

THE ROSE WINE PUB An earthy, restored 1927 building, constructed with the reclaimed redwood of a historic South Park home, this intimate neighborhood wine bar also offers a selection of craft beer, light bites and wine storage. 2219 30th St., South Park, 619.280.1815. $$ Map J12 WE OLIVE Olive oil tasting room also includes coastalview wine bar featuring California wines and tastings of gourmet food items; plus specialty gifts. Great spot for happy hour, featuring discounted cheese plates and other light gourmet nibbles; as well as a selection of wines by the glass. Head to the back patio overlooking the ocean. L, D (daily). 1158 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.8250. $$ Map W19 THE WINE LOVER Parisian-inspired wine shop and wine bar features an outdoor patio, California and international wines, gourmet cheeses and imported olives; plus live music on select nights—including live jazz on Monday nights. Store open daily from 4:30 p.m. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 3968 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.294.9200. $$$ Map N16 WINE STEALS Lively atmosphere and wine-friendly eats (cheeses, pizzas and charcuterie) at good prices.

Relaxed neighborhood vibe at all three locations.

Open daily. 1953 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.230.2657, Map W22; 1243 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.295.1188, Map N17; 2970 Truxton Road, Point Loma, 619.221.1959. $$ Map J9 WINE VAULT & BISTRO A truly special find in Mission Hills, this place serves five-course, set-menu, wine dinners every Saturday, with wine flights and special events during the week. Food ranges from Italian to French to California, depending on the evening. Romantic ambiance. D (Th-Sa). 3731-A India St., Mission Hills, 619.295.3939. $$ Map N14

where?

Log on anywhere.

WhereSD.com

Unique cocktails 401 G Street, Gaslamp www.TinRoofSanDiego.com 619-230-8606

North County’s premier local craft beer tap room and bottleshop!

20 San Diego craft beers on tap at all times.

300 bottles for sampling.

Check our webpage/Facebook for daily happenings.

Located in the Beachwalk Retail Center 437 S. Highway 101, Suite 107, Solana Beach, CA 92075 www.sandiegobeerworks.com | 858-353-7174

SanDiegoBeerWorks

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SD DINING CAFÉ LA RUE A new Bistro & Bar on Prospect St. in La Jolla consisting of the most delicious ménage à trois: Food + Wine + Friends.

Experience hand crafted cocktails, premium libations and Modern European Cuisine crafted by Executive Chef James Montejano. Inspired by the art of hotel legend Wing Howard, this people-watching cafe with terrazzo floors, Venetian plaster ceilings, glass-enclosed wine vault and large bar is graced by paintings of the room’s original 1947 inception.

Not to miss is Café la Rue’s signature happy hour, “The Appointment”–Sunday through Friday 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Café la Rue opens daily at 6 a.m. for breakfast and all day dining at 11 a.m. B, L, D (daily).

1132 Prospect St., La Jolla lavalencia.com 858.454.0771

LOTUS THAI There’s a good reason why this elegantly laid-back restaurant, with locations in East Village and Hillcrest, has been repeatedly honored as “Best Thai” in San Diego by numerous outlets. Known for its refined, unpretentious vibe, fresh ingredients and spices, artful dish presentations, and vegetarian-friendly options, Lotus Thai serves up sophisticated, authentic cuisine honoring regional recipes from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and south Thailand. Among our favorites: the Lemon Grass Beef Satay starter; the steamed Shumai, made with ground pork, shrimp and black mushroom wrapped with wonton skin; the spicy Panang curry; and the Crying Tiger entrée—marinated, charcoal-broiled prime steak with a spicy lime dipping sauce. L, D (daily) 906 Market St., East Village 619.595.0115 3761 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest 619.299.8272 lotusthaisd.com

WE OLIVE AND WINE BAR Pretty much everything about We Olive is good enough to eat. An olive oil tasting room and much more, the epicurean specialty market overlooking La Jolla Cove features a coastal-view wine bar with a well-curated selection of California wines and artisanal dishes. Make a meal out of the smoked albacore melt, served on toasted rosemary focaccia; the black olive and blood-orange hummus platter, served with veggies and pita chips; and the prosciutto flatbread topped with a Parmesan-Asiago spread and arugula— among many other savory delights. Happy hour is also prime time to visit, with discounted wines by the glass, craft beer, cheese plates and gourmet bites. And the best part: many menu ingredients are available for purchase in the retail store. L, D (daily).

1158 Prospect St., La Jolla weolive.com/lajolla 858.551.8250 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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RESTAURANTS City Index Our superguide by area, with cross reference to listings by cuisine.

GASLAMP QUARTER ACQUA AL 2 (Italian) ............................................................................. 46 BARLEYMASH (American) .................................................................... 38 BICE (Italian) ................................................................................................. 46 BLUE POINT (Seafood) ........................................................................... 49 BRIAN’S 24 (Breakfast) ........................................................................... 40 CAFÉ SEVILLA (International) .............................................................. 45 CHOPAHN (International) ....................................................................... 45 DICK’S LAST RESORT (American) ................................................... 38 DONOVAN’S (Steak) .............................................................................. 50 FLEMING’S (Steak)................................................................................... 51 FLORENT RESTAURANT & LOUNGE (American) ................ 38 FOGO DE CHÃO (Steak) ..................................................................... 51 GANG KITCHEN (Eclectic/Fusion) ..................................................... 44 THE GRAPE (Wine Bars) ......................................................................... 52 GREYSTONE (Steak) ............................................................................... 51 HEAVENLY CUPCAKE (Desserts) .................................................... 43 JSIX (California Cuisine) .............................................................................. 42 LOU & MICKEY’S (Steak) .................................................................... 51 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood) ..................................... 50 MONSOON (International) ................................................................... 45 NOBU (Japanese) ........................................................................................ 48 THE OCEANAIRE (Seafood) ................................................................ 50 OSETRA (Seafood) ..................................................................................... 50 RAMA (Thai)................................................................................................. 51 REI DO GADO (International) .............................................................. 45 SEARSUCKER (American)...................................................................... 38 TAKA (Japanese) .......................................................................................... 48 UNION KITCHEN & TAP (American) ............................................. 40

DOWNTOWN/EAST VILLAGE/EMBARCADERO BAKE SALE BAKERY (Desserts) ...................................................... 43 BLIND BURRO (Mexican/Southwestern) .......................................... 48 CAFÉ 222 (Breakfast) ............................................................................... 40 CAFÉ CHLOE (French)............................................................................ 44 CANDELAS (Mexican/Southwestern) .................................................. 48 COUNTERPOINT (Wine Bars) ............................................................. 52 COWBOY STAR (Steak) ........................................................................ 50 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood) ..................................... 49 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood) ........................................................... 49 GRANT GRILL (California Cuisine) ....................................................... 41 HORNBLOWER (American).................................................................. 38 LOTUS THAI (Thai) .................................................................................. 51 MARINA KITCHEN (American) ......................................................... 38 THE MISSION (Breakfast)...................................................................... 40 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE (Steak) .................................. 51 NEIGHBORHOOD (American) ........................................................... 38 PIZZERIA MOZZA (Italian) .................................................................. 47 PUESTO (Mexican)..................................................................................... 49 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast) ........ 41 SALLY’S (Seafood) ...................................................................................... 50 TOP OF THE MARKET (Seafood) .................................................... 49

LITTLE ITALY BENCOTTO (Italian) ................................................................................ 46 CRAFT & COMMERCE (American) ................................................. 38 DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian) ............................................................ 46 EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS (Desserts)................................... 43 IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER (Seafood) .......................................... 50 ISOLA PIZZA BAR (Italian) .................................................................. 46 JUNIPER & IVY (California Cuisine) .................................................... 42 MONELLO (Italian) .................................................................................. 47 PO PAZZO (Italian)................................................................................... 47 PREPKITCHEN (California Cuisine)...................................................... 42 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE (International) ..................... 45 SHINO SUSHI + KAPPO (Japanese) .............................................. 48 TRATTORIA FANTASTICA (Italian) ................................................ 47 UNDERBELLY (Japanese) ....................................................................... 48 WINE VAULT & BISTRO (Wine Bars).............................................. 52

LA JOLLA ALFONSO’S (Mexican/Southwestern) ................................................ 48 AMICI’S EAST COAST PIZZERIA (Italian) ................................. 46 BROCKTON VILLA (American) .......................................................... 38 CAFÉ JAPENGO (Japanese) ................................................................ 47

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CAFÉ LA RUE (French) ........................................................................... 44 CUSP (California Cuisine) ........................................................................... 41 THE COTTAGE (Breakfast).................................................................... 40 DONOVAN’S (Steak) .............................................................................. 50 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood) ..................................... 49 FINCH’S BISTRO & WINE BAR (Wine Bars) ............................. 52 FLEMING’S (Steak)................................................................................... 51 GEORGE’S AT THE COVE (California Cuisine)............................ 41 HERRINGBONE (American) ................................................................. 38 MARINE ROOM (French)...................................................................... 44 THE MED (American) ............................................................................... 38 MICHELE COULON (Desserts).......................................................... 43 NINE-TEN (California Cuisine) ................................................................ 42 PIATTI (Italian).............................................................................................. 47 PUESTO (Mexican)..................................................................................... 49 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast) ........ 41 ROPPONGI (Eclectic/Fusion) ................................................................. 44 SPICE & RICE (Thai)................................................................................ 52 SUSHI ON THE ROCK (Japanese) ................................................... 48 TAPENADE (French) ................................................................................. 45 WHISKNLADLE (California Cuisine) .................................................... 43 WE OLIVE (Wine Bars) ............................................................................. 52

MISSION BAY/BEACHES BO-BEAU (French) ..................................................................................... 44 COSTA BRAVA (International).............................................................. 45 ISABEL’S CANTINA (Breakfast).......................................................... 40 JRDN (California Cuisine)........................................................................... 42 THE MISSION (Breakfast)...................................................................... 40 THE PATIO ON LAMONT (California Cuisine) ............................ 42 TABLE 926 (California Cuisine)............................................................... 42

HARBOR /SHELTER/POINT LOMA BALI HAI (Eclectic/Fusion) ....................................................................... 44 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood) ............................................................... 49 HUMPHREY’S RESTAURANT (Seafood) ...................................... 49 ISLAND PRIME (Seafood)...................................................................... 50 JIMMY’S TAVERN (American) ............................................................ 38 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern) ................................. 49 OLD VENICE (Italian).............................................................................. 47 EAT AT THE PEARL (California Cuisine)........................................... 41 SLATER’S 50/50 (American)................................................................. 38 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars) .................................................................... 52

CORONADO 1500 OCEAN (California Cuisine) ........................................................ 41 BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE (Seafood) .......................................... 49 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood) ............................................................... 49 CANDELAS (Mexican/Southwestern) .................................................. 48 IL FORNAIO (Italian) ............................................................................... 46 LEROY’S KITCHEN (California Cuisine) ............................................ 42 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern) ................................. 49 PEOHE’S (Seafood).................................................................................... 50 VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE (Italian) .............................................. 47

DEL MAR/RANCHO SANTA FE EL AGAVE (Mexican/Southwestern)..................................................... 48 ADDISON (French) .................................................................................... 44 ARTERRA (California Cuisine).................................................................. 41 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood) ............................................................... 49 CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................... 46 DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian) ............................................................ 46 DEL MAR RENDEZVOUS (Chinese)............................................... 43 EN FUEGO (Mexican/Southwestern) ................................................... 49 IL FORNAIO (Italian) ............................................................................... 46 KITCHEN 1540 (California Cuisine)..................................................... 42 MARKET (California Cuisine) ................................................................... 42 MILLE FLEURS (French) ......................................................................... 44 PACIFICA DEL MAR (Seafood) .......................................................... 50 POSEIDON (Seafood) .............................................................................. 50 SEA & SMOKE (American) ................................................................... 38 SEARSUCKER (American)...................................................................... 38 SNOOZE (Breakfast) ................................................................................. 41

NORTH COASTAL BEACH GRASS CAFÉ (Breakfast) .................................................... 40 BLUEFIRE GRILL (California Cuisine).................................................. 41 BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR (Japanese) ............... 47 CHART HOUSE (American) .................................................................. 38 CRAFTSMAN TAVERN (American) .................................................. 38 FISH 101 (Seafood).................................................................................... 49 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood) ............................................................ 49 THE FLYING PIG (California Cuisine) ................................................. 41 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese) .................................................................. 48 PACIFIC COAST GRILL (Seafood) .................................................... 50 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE (French) ................................................ 44 EL Q’ERO (International) ......................................................................... 45 SOLACE (American) .................................................................................. 38 TRATTORIA I TRULLI (Italian) ............................................................ 47 UNION KITCHEN & TAP (American) ............................................. 40 VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD & CHOP HOUSE (Steak) ............. 51 VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE (Italian) .............................................. 47 VIVACE (Italian) .......................................................................................... 47 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars) .................................................................... 52 ZENBU (Japanese) ...................................................................................... 48

HILLCREST/NORTH PARK/ MISSION HILLS/SOUTH PARK 100 WINES (French) ................................................................................ 44 ALCHEMY (International) ........................................................................ 45 ALEXANDER’S (Italian) ........................................................................ 46 ARRIVEDERCI (Italian)............................................................................ 46 AZUKI SUSHI (Japanese) ....................................................................... 47 BANKERS HILL (American)................................................................... 38 BERTRAND AT MR. A’S (American)................................................ 38 BLEU BOHEME (French) ...................................................................... 44 BROOKLYN GIRL (American) .............................................................. 38 BUONA FORCHETTA (Italian) .......................................................... 46 CUCINA URBANA (Italian).................................................................. 46 D BAR SAN DIEGO (Desserts) .......................................................... 43 ECLIPSE CHOCOLATE BAR & BISTRO (American) ............. 38 EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS (Desserts)................................... 43 GREAT MAPLE (California Cuisine) .................................................... 41 HASH HOUSE A GO GO (Breakfast) ............................................ 40 JAYNE’S GASTROPUB (California Cuisine) .................................. 41 LOTUS THAI (Thai) .................................................................................. 51 THE MISSION (Breakfast)...................................................................... 40 PLUMERIA (Thai) ...................................................................................... 51 THE PRADO (International) ................................................................... 45 THE ROSE WINE PUB (Wine Bars).................................................. 52 SAFFRON (Thai) ........................................................................................ 51 THE SMOKING GOAT (French) ....................................................... 45 SNOOZE (Breakfast) ................................................................................. 41 SOLTAN BANOO (International) ....................................................... 45 STARLITE (California Cuisine) ................................................................. 42 STATION TAVERN (American) ........................................................... 40 TASTE OF THAI (Thai)........................................................................... 52 TRACTOR ROOM (American) ............................................................. 40 UNDERBELLY (Japanese) ....................................................................... 48 URBAN SOLACE (American) ............................................................... 40 WANG’S NORTH PARK (Chinese) .................................................. 43 WAYPOINT PUBLIC (California Cuisine) .......................................... 43 THE WELLINGTON (Steak) ................................................................ 51 THE WINE LOVER (Wine Bars) .......................................................... 52 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars) .................................................................... 52

OLD TOWN ALEXANDER’S (Italian) ........................................................................ 46 BERTA’S LATIN AMERICAN (International) ................................ 45 EL AGAVE (Mexican/Southwestern)..................................................... 48 CAFÉ COYOTE (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................... 48 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese) .................................................................. 48 JACK & GIULIO’S (Italian)................................................................... 46 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican) ............................................................ 49 OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFÉ (Mexican).................................... 49

MISSION VALLEY/KEARNY MESA BLUE SMOKE SUSHI LOUNGE (Japanese) ............................... 47 DUMPLING INN (Chinese) ................................................................... 43 JASMINE SEAFOOD (Chinese)......................................................... 43 STACKED (American)................................................................................ 40

11/4/14 2:59 PM

Entertainment Guidelines

Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 68-71. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

Index

Festivals ................................55 Special Events.........................55 Theater .................................56 Music + Dance ..................58 Casinos.................................59 Attractions ......................... 60

Wineries ............................. 60 Museums ........................... 60 Destination Shopping .....62 Nightlife................................63 Tours + Transport .............65

Festivals + Special Events SKATING BY THE SEA Through Jan. 4. See Hotel Del Coronado’s Windsor Lawn transform into an outdoor ice-skating rink that overlooks the beach and Pacific Ocean. (Be on the lookout for marriage proposals happening live on the ice.) The surrounding Del property is also decked out for the holidays with twinkling lights, decorations and a giant Christmas tree. Hotel Del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6611. Map L10 FANTASY ON ICE Through Jan. 4. Lace up your skates and glide away at this outdoor ice rink in the middle of the Westin Horton Plaza shopping center—yet another opportunity to ice-skate in balmy, 75-degree weather. Horton Square, 225 Broadway Circle, downtown, fantasyonicesd.com. Map Q16 WHALE-WATCHING SEASON Through April. Each year beginning in December, more than 20,000 gray whales migrate from Alaska to Baja California, where the females give birth to their calves, before returning north in the spring. Take in the spectacle via a whale-watching tour along San Diego’s 70 miles of coastline directly in the migration path; Hornblower Cruises offers one of the city’s more popular excursions. hornblower.com.

MISSION BAY CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS Dec. 13. Head to the Mission Bay waterfront for this spectacular water parade. More than 100 illuminated vessels parade along Mission Bay starting at 6 p.m., followed by a fireworks show at 9 p.m. above SeaWorld. Mission Bay, 858.488.0501. Map I9 HOLIDAY IN THE PARK Dec. 13-14. See Old Town decked out for the holidays with extended shopping hours, strolling carolers and Las Posadas—a centuriesold tradition in which actors reenact the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph through the town of Bethlehem on Dec. 14. Old Town State Historic Park, San Diego Avenue and Twiggs Street, 619.220.5422. Map M13 GASLAMP HOLIDAY PET PARADE Dec. 14. A holiday fete for the pets? Yes, please! Pooches will dress up and march down the festive streets of the Gaslamp Quarter, starting and ending at the Hilton Gaslamp Park (401 K St., 3 p.m.). Plus a free pet expo (1-5 p.m.) and pet costume contest. Bring your camera. Gaslamp, 619.233.5227. Map Q16 44TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS Dec. 14 and 21, 5:30-9 p.m. See San Diego Bay twinkle with more than 100 private boats decked out with holiday lights for a night on the water. Downtown, 619.224.2240. Map Q15 POINSETTIA BOWL Dec. 23, 6:30 p.m. Get out your alma mater gear for college football at its finest at the 10th annual Poinsettia Bowl—an annual sports tradition in San Diego. Qualcomm Stadium, 9449 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.285.5061. Map I12 PORT OF SAN DIEGO BIG BAY BALLOON PARADE Dec. 26, 3 p.m. Gaze at the massive displays at the country’s largest balloon parade along San Diego Bay. Also enjoy floats and marching bands. San Diego Bay, downtown, 619.686.6200. Map P14 HOLIDAY BOWL Dec. 27, 5 p.m. See who wins this annual epic battle of college football heavyweights. Qualcomm Stadium, 9449 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.283.5808. Map I12

BALBOA PARK DECEMBER NIGHTS Dec. 5-6.

Experience this annual two-day holiday blowout, which features carolers, live music, holiday light displays and more festivities. Plus, many museums open their doors free of charge from 5-9 p.m. Balboa Park, 619.239.0512. Map O17

SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW Jan. 1-4. Check out more than 400 2015 model-year vehicles, plus preview the cars and trucks of tomorrow, at this fabulous annual event “where the cars are the stars.” San Diego Convention Center, 111 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.525.5000. Map R16

CORONADO HOLIDAY CELEBRATION Dec. 5. Be a part of the annual festivities, with a parade along Orange Avenue, the lighting of a 50-foot Christmas tree, a snow mountain play area at the Coronado Ferry Landing, and holiday concert. Coronado, 619.437.8788. Map L10

SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK Jan. 18-24 (tentative). Enjoy fab dining for less when nearly 200 restaurants throughout the county offer prix-fixe, threecourse meals. Visit website for participating restaurants. sandiegorestaurantweek.com.

51ST ANNUAL NORTH PARK TOYLAND PARADE & FESTIVAL Dec. 6, 11 a.m. Parade features a slew of celebrations, plus beauty queens, dance groups, vintage cars, bands and floats; as well as a holiday fair behind the historic North Park Theatre. University Avenue, North Park, 619.269.7880. Map J12

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY PARADE Jan. 18, 2 p.m. Celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. at this annual waterfront parade along San Diego Bay. Enjoy an afternoon of bands, floats and drill teams as they march along the Embarcadero. Downtown, 619.264.0542. Map Q16

LA JOLLA CHRISTMAS PARADE AND HOLIDAY FESTIVAL Dec. 7, 1:30 p.m. It’s the holidays done La Jolla-style, complete with vintage automobiles, equestrian units, floats, marching bands and a Santa Claus appearance. Girard Avenue in La Jolla. Map W19

SAN DIEGO BLACK FILM FESTIVAL Jan. 29-Feb. 1.

Catch more than 100 films across many genres celebrating African American and African Diaspora cinema at this annual event, one of the largest black film festivals in the country. Reading Gaslamp Cinemas, 701 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.234.0022. Map Q16

THE NUTCRACKER Dec. 12-14, 19-24 (City Ballet) and Dec. 13-14, 17-21 (California Ballet). Channel your inner Sugar Plum Fairy at two stagings of the timeless holiday classic presented by the City Ballet of San Diego at the historical Spreckels Theatre, and by the California Ballet at the Civic Theatre. Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway, downtown, 619.235.9500, Map Q16; Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16

SAN DIEGO MUSEUM MONTH Feb. 1-28. Access more than 40 of San Diego’s top museums all month long for half-off admission, including local favorites such as Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Maritime Museum, Birch Aquarium at Scripps and several museums at Balboa Park. Pick up passes at San Diego Macy’s stores. Various locations. sandiegomuseumcouncil.org.

Art Meets Wine

Recently renovated, Salerno Winery doubles as a vineyard and enchanting cultural destination. The winery houses a garden of 30 sculptures by 20 renowned artists—thanks to a new partnership with Mexican businessman and art aficionado Jaime Chaljon. Co-owner Herman Salerno, a former opera singer from Italy, and his wife Rose make sure opera music floats through the air as guests sip award-winning wines, while roaming among the remodeled tasting and dining area, water features and exquisite sculpture collection.

Artists include Tang Da Wu, Julián Bravo and Rodrigo de la Sierra Diaz (his Bajo Control sculpture is pictured). There’s even a life-sized chessboard

by Mexican artist Fernando Pereznieto. 17948 California 67, Ramona, 760.788.7160

Looking for a refreshing dose of artsy entertainment? ArtPower! at UC San Diego offers an exceptional lineup of music, dance, art and film screenings this winter. p. 58

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Entertainment

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FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN Feb. 5-8. San Diego’s most anticipated pro golf tournament has featured legends such as Tiger Woods (2013 champ) and beloved local superstar Phil Mickelson. The actionpacked week includes practice rounds for the PGA Tour players, pro-am tournaments, women’s and men’s days, a junior clinic, military appreciation activities and celebrity after-parties. Torrey Pines Golf Course, 11480 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858.535.4500. Map S19

Closer

Explore the Ocean.

At Your Fingertips.

SAN DIEGO JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL Feb. 5-15.

The 25th annual film festival explores Jewish history, culture and experiences through a slew of shorts, documentaries and feature films. Reading Cinemas Town Square 14, 4665 Clairemont Drive, Clairemont Mesa, 858.274.9994. Map H10 HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Feb. 8, 2 p.m.; Feb. 13, 7 p.m. They’re world-famous for a reason. Fun for kids and basketball enthusiasts alike, enjoy a day of the Harlem Globetrotters and their smooth moves on the court. Valley View Casino Center, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway, 619.224.4171. Map J9 MARDI GRAS IN THE GASLAMP Feb. 17, 5 p.m.midnight. Go downtown for the largest Mardi Gras festival on the West Coast, conveniently staged in the Gaslamp Quarter and equipped with beads and distinct SoCal flavor. Beware of flying bead necklaces.

Gaslamp, 619.233.5227. Map Q16 HILLCREST MARDI GRAS STREET PARTY Feb. 17, 6-11 p.m. Celebrate Fat Tuesday at this roaring annual celebration, featuring local vendors, live music and entertainment; plus awesome people-watching.

Hillcrest, hillcrestmardigras.com. Map N16 CHINESE NEW YEAR FOOD AND CULTURAL FAIR Feb. 21-22, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This free, two-day annual celebration features more than 25 performances, children’s crafts, a lantern parade and a variety of Chinese and Asian foods and cultural displays. Third Ave. and J St., downtown, 619.234.4447. Map Q16

2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037

Theater THE SECOND CITY’S NUT-CRACKING HOLIDAY REVUE Through Dec. 21. This hilarious new holiday production captures all the magic, mystery and mayhem of the season with original songs, sketches and improv performances. Mandell Weiss Forum at the La Jolla Playhouse, UC San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, 858.550.1010. Map T20

Rita McBRide: Public TilT

TRU Through Dec. 21. Adapted from the author’s own words and work, Truman Capote is home alone at Christmastime 1975. He soothes himself with plenty of pills, booze and chocolate, musing about his checkered life and career in this two-act monologue. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd. #101, University Heights, 619.220.0097. Map M18

Rita McBride, Arena, 2012, installation view at MACBA. Col·lecció MACBA. Consorci MACBA. Courtesy of the artist. Photo: Anne Poehlman © Anne Poehlman, Image Archive Rita McBride

DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! Through Dec. 27. For spirited kids young and old, experience this annual holiday production of a Dr. Seuss classic. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17

Colter Jacobsen, Another Another Thought, 2014, Watercolor, 8 1/2 x 9 in., Courtesy of the artist

FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS Through Dec. 28. This year, Lamb’s Players presents Northern Lights, centered on a Minnesota family celebration in 1962. Three generations adjust their traditional holiday plans after the pipes burst at home and surprise guests show up, making for one memorable Christmas. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6000. Map L10 A CHRISTMAS CAROL Through Dec. 28. Expect 19th-century tradition with a 21st-century twist in this completely re-imagined Dickens classic—now a new musical, featuring an original score, puppetry and live Foley sound effects. Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. Map M13

on view thRough feBRuaRy 8, 2015

Featuring installations that engage the tropes of architectural design, modernist sculpture, and public space, this exhibition is installed in the expansive volumes of MCASD’s downtown location.

This is how we walk on The Moon: colteR JacoBsen This exhibition includes new work inspired by the artist’s recent travels by foot and train along the coast of California.

Mention this ad when you visit and Receive 1/2 off adMission.

DOWNTOWN 1100 Kettner Blvd.

San Diego, CA 92101 858 454 3541 www.mcasd.org

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Entertainment

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THIS WONDERFUL LIFE Dec. 10-28. One actor brings to life more than 32 familiar characters from It’s a Wonderful Life in this new production based on the classic Jimmy Stewart movie. It’s a brilliant twist on a legendary holiday film that will leave audiences talking. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. Map X22 AN AMERICAN CHRISTMAS Dec. 15-27. Plan for a true feast at this delectable, five-course holiday meal in a unique setting of festive dance and song presented by the talented Lamb’s Players Theatre troupe. Guests are encouraged to dress up for the occasion.

Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6611. Map L10 STEAL HEAVEN Jan. 3-25. In this thought-provoking new comedy, late ’60s activist Abbie Hoffman conducts a boot camp in heaven for radicals who have the chutzpah required to go back to Earth to become new agents of change in the 21st century ... and things get interesting. Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.544.1000. Map Q16

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DIRTY DANCING – THE CLASSIC STORY ON STAGE Jan. 6-11. This beautifully choreographed Broadway musical adaptation of the hugely popular ’80s movie features the hit songs “Hungry Eyes,” “Hey, Baby,” “Do You Love Me?” and the heart-stopping “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.” And don’t forget one of its most famous lines: “Nobody puts Baby in a corner.” Broadway/ San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16 GUNMETAL BLUES Jan. 14-Feb. 8. This musical spoof of 1940s film noir is laced with mystery, music and demolished dreams. In the best Raymond Chandler tradition, the scene is set in the seedy, smoky Red Eye Lounge, where we meet a tough, trench-coated private eye, blondes, henchmen and a jaded piano player.

North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. Map X22 SONS OF THE PROPHET Jan. 15-Feb. 15. Honored as a finalist for the 2012 Pulitzer Prize, this play is a brutally funny comedy about family, culture and how we cope with wounds that just won’t heal. The production is presented by the acclaimed Cygnet Theatre, known for its bold dramas, comedies and musicals. Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. Map M13 MURDER FOR TWO Jan. 24-March 1. The Old Globe’s engaging new comedy promises not to disappoint.

Multi-millionaire Arthur Whitney has been murdered at his own birthday party, and his killer could be any one of the guests. No ordinary murder mystery, the entire world of this hilarious musical is brought to life by two incredible performers: one plays the detective and the other plays all 10 suspects, and both play the piano.

Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17

The Original Tour of the Seven Caves

THE DARRELL HAMMOND PROJECT Jan. 31-March 8. It’s one of La Jolla Playhouse’s most anticipated productions of the New Year. Based on comedian Darrell Hammond’s acclaimed memoir, God, If You’re Not Up There, I’m F*cked: Tales of Stand-Up, Saturday Night Live and Other Mind-Altering Mayhem, this one-man show is a heartbreaking and hilarious journey inside the life and mind of an American comic genius. Potiker Theatre at the La Jolla Playhouse, UC San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, 858.550.1010. Map T20

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THE TWENTY-SEVENTH MAN Feb. 14-March 15. In a Soviet prison in 1952, Stalin’s secret police have rounded up 26 Yiddish literary writers—and one unpublished and unknown teenager. As cell mates, they all wonder what has brought them together, and wrestle with what it means to write in troubled times. Written by Nathan Englander and directed by Barry Edelstein. White Theatre at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17

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Entertainment Music + Dance + Performances ARTPOWER! AT UC SAN DIEGO This critically acclaimed music, dance, art and film series at UC San Diego showcases a diverse range of uniquely talented artists, concerts and exclusive special performances.

Dec. 3: Aurelio (global music); Jan. 7: Julian Lage (jazz); Jan. 10: Pacifica Quartet (chamber); Jan. 16: Oma and Bella (film); Jan. 22: ODC (dance); Feb. 7: The Nile Project (global music); Feb. 14: Dover Quartet (chamber); Feb. 18: Black Grace (dance); Feb. 20: Zeit Der Kannibalen (Time of the Cannibals) (film).

Various locations around UC San Diego campus, artpwr.com. Map T20 ATHENAEUM MUSIC AND ARTS LIBRARY This charming cultural campus presents an always-exceptional roster of world-class musicians. Jan. 8-11: SoundON Festival of Modern Music; Jan. 16: The Calidore String Quartet; Feb. 2: Alexandre Tharaud; Feb. 10: Gustavo Romero and Massimo Somezi.

1008 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.5872. Map W19 BALBOA THEATRE Dec. 5: Mike Birbiglia; Dec. 11: The Songs of Kate Smith with Stephanie Blythe and Craig Terry; Dec. 13-14: San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus Holiday Spectacular; Dec. 20: A Peter White Christmas; Dec. 23: Dave Koz & Friends; Jan. 30: Wendy Whelan; Feb. 6: Kodo Drummers of Japan; Feb. 21: Jim Henson’s Dinosaur Train Live; Feb. 22: A Salute to American Jazz Greats Family Concert; Feb. 26: The Very Best of Celtic Thunder. 868 Fourth Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16

WELCOME TO KOALAFORNIA

THE NEW AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK. NOW OPEN!

CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS Its winter lineup of concerts and performances is worth the drive to Escondido. Dec. 2: Highland Way; Dec. 3: Bill Magee Blues Band; Dec. 5: Mariachi Sol de Mexico: A Merri-achi Christmas; Dec. 6: Holiday Tree Lighting and Winter Wonderland Festival; Dec. 6: The Center Chorale – A Choral Yuletide; Dec. 6: KPRi’s Holiday WhereSDMag_SDZoo_Sum2014.indd 1 Soiree feat. O.A.R and Matt Nathanson; Dec. 7: Pink Martini; Dec. 10: Merle Haggard; Dec. 11: Annie Jr.; Dec. 17: Christmas with Lúnasa, feat. special guest Karan Casey; Dec. 23: Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show; Jan. 7: Jimmy & Enrique; Jan. 10: Peking Acrobats; Jan. 11: Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel; Jan. 21: JazzReach feat. the Metta Quintet; Jan. 24: Jesse Cook; Jan. 25: Zofo; Jan. 25: Alberta Ballet Fumbling Towards Ecstasy; Feb. 1: Jiayan Sun (piano); Feb. 3: Araceli Carrera’s Impulse Dance Youth Company; Feb. 4: The Uptown Rhythm Makers; Feb. 5: Garrison Keillor; Feb. 15: Harlem Gospel Choir; Feb. 27: Venice Baroque Orchestra. 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, 800.988.4253. Map B3

sandiegozoo.org/koalafornia

4/8/14 8:34 AM

CIVIC THEATRE It’s downtown’s go-to venue for stellar, large-scale productions. Dec. 10: Celtic Woman Home for Christmas; Dec. 28: Mannheim Steamroller; Dec. 31: Straight No Chaser. 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16 LA JOLLA SYMPHONY AND CHORUS Dec. 12-14: Steven Schick conducts William Grant Still’s AfroAmerican Symphony and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9; Feb. 7-8: Steven Schick conducts Osvaldo Golijov’s Azul, Chinary Ung’s Khse Buon and Carl Nielsen’s Symphony No. 4. Mandeville Auditorium, UC San Diego, La Jolla, 858.534.4637. Map T20 NORTH PARK THEATRE Dec. 1: John Waters; Dec. 31: The Mother Hips, Nicki Bluhm and The Gramblers; Jan. 25: Steam Powered Giraffe; Feb. 25: Cold War Kids. 2891 University Ave., North Park, 619.239.8836. Map N18 SAN DIEGO OPERA After a tumultuous year during which the Opera faced closing its curtains for good, it’s back and ready to wow. Jan. 24, 27, 29 and Feb. 1: La Bohème; Feb. 14, 17, 20, 22: Don Giovanni; March 14, 17, 20, 22: Nixon in China. Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16

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Entertainment

S A N DI E G O S YM P HON Y

CHOOSE YOUR OWN FROM THESE SERIES

ANY Jacobs Masterworks PERFORMANCE

ANY

CUSTOMIZE YOUR CONCERT EXPERIENCE!

ANY Special Concerts PERFORMANCE except A JOHN WILLIAMS CELEBRATION

ANY

International Passport Series

PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE

except VINCE GILL and KENNY G

except SALUTE TO VIENNA

Concerts and series excluded from the Choose Your Own subscription package options: Family Festival, Fox Theater Film Series, Chamber Series, and Camera Lucida; Special concerts: Vince Gill, Kenny G, Salute to Vienna, The Godfather-LIVE, and A John Williams Celebration. Speak with our Box Office at 619.235.0804 for further details if you are interested in buying single tickets to these special presentations.

Experience Excellence.

Financial support is provided by the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture.

A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SERIES SPONSORS:

SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY Dec. 5-7: Quint Plays Khachaturian; Dec. 12-14: Bach and Rachmaninoff; Dec. 16: Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker; Dec. 19-21: Holiday Pops w/ Eileen Ivers: A Celtic Celebration; Jan. 1: Salute to Vienna: New Year’s Concert 2015; Jan. 3: A Charlie Chaplin Celebration: 100 Years of the Little Tramp; Jan. 9-11: Sir Neville Marriner; Jan. 16: Tango Buenos Aires; Jan. 25: Behold the Bold Umbrellaphant! Jan. 30-31: John Williams: Maestro of the Movies; Feb. 6-8: Mozart and Strauss; Feb. 10: Russian National Ballet presents Sleeping Beauty; Feb. 11: Russian National Ballet presents Don Quixote; Feb. 12: Russian National Ballet presents Swan Lake; Feb. 13: La Jolla Music Society presents Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra; Feb. 14: Nathan Pacheco: Be My Valentine; Feb. 18-19: YPC 2: Coming to America; Feb. 20: Vienna Boys Choir; Feb. 27-28 and March 1: Goode Plays Mozart. Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, 619.235.0804. Map Q14 Chamber Music Series: Dec. 9: Philippe Quint (violin); Jan. 28: Johannes Moser (cello); Feb. 24: San Diego New Music. The Auditorium at The Scripps Research Institute, 10640 John Jay Hopkins Drive, La Jolla, 619.235.0804. Map S20 VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER Jan. 21-25: Disney on Ice “Let’s Celebrate”; Feb. 8 and 13: Harlem Globetrotters. Call for complete schedule. 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway, 619.224.4171. Map J9

Casinos ALL SINGLE TICKET FULL PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UP UNTIL SHOWTIME WITHOUT ANY GIVEN NOTICE. All artists, programs, dates and times subject to change. All sales final, no refunds.

CALL 619.235.0804 or VISIT sandiegosymphony.com

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BARONA VALLEY RANCH RESORT AND CASINO More than 2,000 slot machines, 70-plus table games, satellite wagering and an all-you-can-eat buffet.

Daily, 24 hours. 1932 Wildcat Canyon Road, Lakeside, 619.443.2300. Map D4 CASINO PAUMA Tropically themed complex with more than 35,000 square feet of gaming, 850 slots, 24 table games, poker parlor and non-smoking section. Daily, 24 hours. 777 Pauma Reservation Road, Pauma Valley, 760.891.7900. Map A4 PALA RESORT AND CASINO The sprawling property features 2,250 state-of-the-art slots and video machines, 85 Vegas-style gaming tables, live entertainment, eight restaurants and two lounges; plus a full-service spa and luxe overnight accomodations. 11154 Hwy. 76, Pala, 760.510.5100. Map A3 PECHANGA RESORT AND CASINO Video machines, table games, lunch buffet and entertainment center featuring live concerts and professional boxing. Alcohol served. Daily, 24 hours. 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula, 951.693.1819. Map A3 HARRAH’S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA The property recently completed astonishing renovations to the tune of $160 million—including a new 21-story, 403-room hotel tower; the new Dive Day Club, which includes several pools and a lazy river; and Spiked, a new craft cocktail ultra-lounge. Daily, 24 hours. 777 Harrah’s Rincon Way, Valley Center, 760.751.3100. Map B4 SYCUAN CASINO Find high-stakes bingo, pai gow poker, slots and four restaurants at this East County gambling hall, plus a 500-seat theater. Daily, 24 hours.

5469 Casino Way, El Cajon, 619.445.6002. Map D5

(866) 233-0496

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VALLEY VIEW CASINO The renovated property features high-limit blackjack, 2,000 slots, the Black & Blue Steakhouse and Lounge, a Maine lobster buffet served nightly, a 24-hour café, three bars, a stunning 3,300-gallon saltwater aquarium, free valet parking, and separate non-smoking gaming and bar area. Daily, 24 hours. 16300 Nyemii Pass Road, Valley Center, 760.291.5500. Map B4 VIEJAS CASINO Alpine casino features 2,500 Vegas– style slots, table games, satellite wagering, high-stakes bingo, buffet and six restaurants. Daily, 24 hours. 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, 800.847.6537. Map D5

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Attractions + Museums SAN DIEGO ZOO The world-famous zoo has more than 4,000 rare and endangered animals in a charming, state–of–the–art park. Its inclined walking trails are a workout. $42; kids 3–11 $32; kids 2 and under free. Free parking. Open daily 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.231.1515. Map O17 SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals including killer whales plus fish, reptiles and birds. $73; kids 3–9 $65; kids 2 and under free. Parking: $14-19. Open daily; call for hours and combo rates. 500 SeaWorld Drive, Mission Bay Park, 800.25.SHAMU. Map I8

Champagne bottles at Bailiwick, p. 63

U.S. OLYMPIC TRAINING CENTER One of only four OTCs in the U.S., this year-round facility features field hockey, archery, soccer, BMX facilities and more. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Ask about guided tours. Free entry. 2800 Olympic Pkwy., Chula Vista, 619.656.1500. Map F4

Wineries Attractions BELMONT PARK A beachfront landmark with attractions, rides, arcades and dining. Highlights include the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, WaveHouse, SoCal’s largest indoor pool, Liberty Carousel and several casual eateries, bars and food booths. 3146 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.228.9283. Map I8 BIRCH AQUARIUM AT SCRIPPS Explore one of the nation’s largest oceanographic museums, and enjoy a spectacular view from the tidepool plaza. Daily 9 a.m.– 5 p.m. Three-hour courtesy parking. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, 858.534.3474. Map U20 CABRILLO NATIONAL MONUMENT The monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay on Sept. 28, 1542. Nearby, enjoy whalewatching, tidepools, trails, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and spectacular views of the city and ocean. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. $3-5. 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, Point Loma, 619.557.5450. Map L8 JETPACK AMERICA Explore Mission Bay like never before with this new water-propelled jet-pack adventure that allows you to fly over and through the water—up to 30 feet in the air. 1010 Santa Clara Place, Mission Bay, 888.553.6471. Map H7 K1 SPEED SoCal’s first electric indoor kart-racing center lets 20-horsepower electric karts roam 70,000 square feet of space; arcade games, too. 6212 Corte del Abeto, Carlsbad, 760.929.2225, Map U23; 1709 Main St., downtown, 619.241.4740. Map K11 LEGOLAND Find 50-plus rides and shows, and Sea Life Aquarium’s 7-foot-long Lego submarine. Check out the new waterpark complete with a lazy river (open seasonally). Adults $80; kids 3–12 and seniors 60+ $70 (add $13/ticket for admission to aquarium or water park; add $19/ticket for admission to all three).

Aquarium-only: adults $20; kids 3-12 $15. Parking $12–20. Call for hours. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346. Map U22 SAFARI PARK (formerly the Wild Animal Park). Take a safari adventure through the 1,800–acre wildlife preserve, home to herds of exotic animals roaming in vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains.

Safari packages start at $42 for adults; children 3–11 $32; kids 2 and under free. Parking $10. Daily 9 a.m.5 p.m. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702. Map C3 SAN DIEGO BOTANIC GARDEN One of the world’s most diverse plant collections with 37 acres of lush gardens and trails. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (till 8 p.m.

Th). $12, with discounted rates for seniors and small children; free for kids 2 and under. 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, 760.436.3036. Map V22

BERNARDO WINERY Founded in 1899 by Sicilian winemakers, this is the oldest continuously operating winery in SoCal. Also on-site: a restaurant, chocolatier and art galleries, including a glassblowing studio.

Tastings daily. 13330 Paseo del Verano North, Rancho Bernardo, 858.487.1866. Map C4

CARRUTH CELLARS Urban winery and tasting room makes wine from Northern California grapes; tastings daily. 320 S. Cedros Ave. #400, Solana Beach, 858.847.9463. Map X22 MENGHINI WINERY Boutique Julian winery produces just 4,000 cases of syrah, sauvignon blanc, Riesling and cabernet sauvignon annually. Tastings daily. 1150 Julian Orchards Drive, Julian, 760.765.2072. Map C6 ORFILA VINEYARDS Growing syrah, Viognier, muscat canelli and more, this boutique winery produces about 10,000 cases of Rhone-style wines annually. 13455 San Pasqual Road, Escondido, 760.738.6500. Map C3 SAN PASQUAL WINERY Favorites at this downtown La Mesa winery include its Summervine Habanero passion-fruit wine, which won Double Gold at the 2013 San Diego County Fair, and its 2010 Lake County malbec, recently chosen to represent California at an international malbec tasting in Cahors, France. 8140 Center St., La Mesa, 619.469.9463. Map D3 SOLTERRA WINERY & KITCHEN This modern winery, tasting room and tapas-style eatery is just a couple blocks from the beach. Try the Solterra “white” label, made from grapes that are only grown in San Diego County, Temecula and northern Baja, Mexico. 934 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.230.2970. Map V22 WITCH CREEK WINERY Two tasting rooms, including one in the heart of Carlsbad, offer samplings of Witch Creek’s full-bodied wines daily, each with a feline-inspired name. 2906 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, 760.765.2023, Map T22; 2000 Main St., Julian, 760.720.7499. Map C6

Museums

CORONADO MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND ART Galleries of historical memorabilia reveal Coronado’s rich past and interesting fun facts. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (daily).

Suggested donation $2–4. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.7242. Map L10 MARSTON HOUSE Craftsman-style house designed by renowned architects William Hebbard and Irving Gill in 1905. Period furnishings, pottery and an Indian basketry collection. Open for tours F-M 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Adults $10; kids 6-12 $4; kids under 5 free. 3525 Seventh Ave., Balboa Park, 619.297.9327. Map O16 MARITIME MUSEUM Visit the 1863 barque Star of India (world’s oldest active ship), the 1898 steam ferryboat Berkeley, the 1904 steam yacht Medea, a Soviet-era submarine and the HMS Surprise, the Royal Navy frigate featured in the film Master and Commander. Daily 9 a.m.–8 p.m. $15; seniors/military/teens $11; kids 6-12 $8; children 5 and under free. The schooner Californian also offers halfday sailing trips ($31-42). 1492 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.234.9153. Map P15 MINGEI INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM Exhibits celebrate folk art. Tu–Su 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $5–8; children 5 and under free. 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0003. Map O17 MISSION SAN DIEGO DE ALCALÁ The first of 21 issions stretching north along the California coast, this m one was established by Father Junípero Serra in 1769 on Presidio Hill and moved to this site in 1774. Adults $3; kids/seniors $2. 10818 San Diego Mission Road, Mission Valley, 619.281.8449. Map I12 MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART SAN DIEGO Museum features post-1950s art spanning many genres and media. Call for hours of operation at both locations. $5-10 admission valid for seven days; ages 25 and under free; free third Th 5-7 p.m. 700 Prospect St., La Jolla, Map W19; 1001 and 1100 Kettner Blvd., downtown, 858.454.3541. Map Q15 MUSEUM OF MAKING MUSIC Vintage instruments and interactive audio and visual exhibits offer a dynamic look into the history of American popular music. A family-friendly experience. Tu–Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5–8; kids 5 and under free. 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, 760.438.5996. Map U23

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MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS Collection includes contemporary photography, social documentary and photojournalism. Regularly rotating exhibits. Film screenings, too. Tu-Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5–8; kids 12 and under free. Free second Tu. 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.7559. Map O17 NEW CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Downtown’s stunning, super-mod museum, designed just for kids, encourages visitors to touch and interact with exhibits. M-Sa 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Su noon-4 p.m. $10; seniors/military $5; children under 1 free. Free second Su. 200 W. Island Ave., downtown, 619.233.8792. Map Q16 OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART Regional and international artists showcased in exhibits ranging from landscape painting to studio furniture, neon sculpture, art quilts and architectural glass. Tu–Sa 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Su 1-4 p.m. $5–8 (students and military are free). 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.435.3720. Map S22

CALIFORNIA SURF MUSEUM Collection of surfing artifacts and memorabilia, plus exhibits about surfing legends. Rare surfing collectibles in museum gift shop. Daily 10 a.m. –4 p.m., Th 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Adults $5; seniors/ military/students $3; kids under 12 free. 312 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.721.6876. Map S22

REUBEN H. FLEET SCIENCE CENTER Interactive science galleries invite visitors to explore the wonders of astronomy, the earth and physics. Giant-screen films run in the IMAX Dome Theater. M-Th 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (open later during holiday breaks); F-Su 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $14.95-$17.95 (IMAX films included); kids 3 and under free. 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.1233. Map O17

CENTRO CULTURAL DE LA RAZA Celebrates Mexican, Chicano and indigenous art and culture with vibrant murals, art exhibits and performances. Gallery open Tu–Su noon–4 p.m. Suggested donation $5. 2125 Park Blvd., Balboa Park, 619.235.6135. Map P17

SAN DIEGO AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Hot-air balloons, jets and historic aircraft. Daily 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. $7-17.50 (Ripley’s Believe It or Not! exhibition admission is $12-24); kids 2 and under free. 2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, 619.234.8291. Map P17

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Shopping SAN DIEGO HALL OF CHAMPIONS Three levels and 68,000 square feet of noteworthy sports exhibits and interactive displays form the largest multi-sports museum in the U.S. Daily 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. $6; seniors/military $4; kids 7-17 $3; kids 2 and under free. 2131 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, 619.234.2544. Map O17 SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART Diverse collection includes Italian Renaissance and Spanish Baroque works, 19th–20th-century American and European paintings and sculptures, and a vast Asian collection. M–Sa 10 a.m–5 p.m. (closed W), Su noon-5 p.m. $4.50–12; kids 6 and under free. 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931. Map O17

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SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF MAN Go on a journey of the human experience highlighting our physical and cultural development through permanent and changing exhibits. Daily 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; $5–12.50; Laurie Anns_WI15_1-6H_v2.indd 1 children 2 and under free. 1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.2001. Map O17 SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Dinosaur displays, giant-screen films, photography exhibitions and more. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $11–17; children 2 and under free; free for active military first Tu. 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.3821. Map O17

GAP TO GUCCI, CHICO TO CHANEL–DESIGNERS FOR EVERY BUDGET. CHANEL, GUCCI, PRADA, MAX MARA, ARMANI, VERSACE, L.V., ST. JOHN AND COUNTLESS OTHERS

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Special Events Sunset Sails Whale Watching Yacht Memberships

STUART COLLECTION OF SCULPTURE Scattered across the UC San Diego campus, outdoor art collection includes talking and singing trees, a “Sun God” and more. Free. Gilman and La Jolla Village drives, La Jolla, 858.534.2230. Map T20

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USS MIDWAY Now a retired aircraft carrier, the world’s largest floating naval-aviation museum has restored airplanes on the flight deck and interactive exhibits inside. Daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $10–18; military/kids 5 and under free. 910 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.544.9600. Map Q14

404.441.9414

LOCAL’S FAVORITE EATERY AWARD-WINNING

Destination Shopping CARLSBAD PREMIUM OUTLETS Shop 90 outlet stores (including Barneys New York, Polo Ralph Lauren and Banana Republic) in a pleasant outdoor setting. 5620 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.804.9000. Map U22

READERS CHOICE AWARDS

B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S

2 0 1 4

DEL MAR HIGHLANDS TOWN CENTER This exclusive pocket of dining, shopping and entertainment comprises around 75 stylish shops and restaurants.

12925 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.793.5757. Map X22

“ THE GEM IN THE JEWEL”

MONDAY - SATURDAY LUNCH 11:30 - 3 HAPPY HOUR 3 - 6 DINNER 5 - 10

DEL MAR PLAZA With more than 20 shops and eight restaurants, this gorgeous tri-level boutique shopping plaza overlooks the Pacific Ocean. 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.1555. Map X22 DUTY FREE CITY Located along the U.S.-Mexico border, this 14,000-square-foot space offers sophisticated, dutyfree shopping: luxury accessories, beauty products, leather goods, confectionary, wine, spirits and tobacco. 601 E. San Ysidro Blvd., San Ysidro, 619.621.2600. Map F3

PATIO SEATING • LIVE MUSIC

FASHION VALLEY The largest mall in San Diego, this beautiful bi-level, outdoor mall includes 200-plus shops, five department stores, restaurants, a food court and an 18-screen movie theater. 7007 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.688.9113. Map J10 FLOWER HILL PROMENADE Del Mar’s recently expanded, upscale lifestyle center is home to refined restaurants (including Sea & Smoke and Cucina Enoteca) and dozens of high-end specialty boutiques—such as Lone Flag, Mr. B’s Luminaries and Studio Penny Lane. 2720 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.481.7131. Map X22 THE FORUM CARLSBAD Elegant, tree-lined outdoor center with dozens of shops and restaurants, including Anthropologie and Sur La Table. 1905 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, 760.479.0166. Map U23

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Nightlife THE HEADQUARTERS AT SEAPORT DISTRICT Openair center in a historic setting is home to specialty shops, designer boutiques and restaurants, including several not found anywhere else in San Diego. 789 W. Harbor Drive, 619.235.4014. Map K11 LAS AMERICAS PREMIUM OUTLETS Spanish Colonial-style outlet mall has 125-plus shops. 4211 Camino de la Plaza, San Ysidro, 619.934.8400. Map F3 OTAY RANCH TOWN CENTER Shops at this airy, stylish South County mall include Apple, Sephora and myriad fashion boutiques. Enjoy outdoor fire pits, a dog park and a movie theater. 2015 Birch Road, Chula Vista, 619.656.9100. Map F3 SEAPORT VILLAGE Picturesque and charming outdoor plaza on the waterfront features 54 one-of-a-kind shops and galleries. 849 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.235.4014. Map R15 WESTFIELD HORTON PLAZA Popular multi-level outdoor mall features almost 200 shops, two restaurants and a food court. Anchored by Macy’s and Nordstrom.

324 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.239.8180. Map Q16 WESTFIELD UTC Enjoy more than 180 shops, five restaurants and a food court. Located near UCSD, the mall is anchored by Macy’s, Sears and Nordstrom. 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Golden Triangle, 858.546.8858. Map T21

Nightlife Gaslamp Quarter/Downtown/Little Italy

207/FLOAT Rock ‘n’ roll glamour at the Hard Rock Hotel; two nightspots offer different vibes, from the street-level 207 lounge to the rooftop Float, featuring bottle service in poolside cabanas. Hard Rock Hotel, 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.3000. Map Q16 AD NIGHTCLUB It’s like stepping inside a modern cathedral with a full-service bar—complete with aerial performers, state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, custom booths for bottle-service reservations, and a mural of Jesus wearing shades on the wall behind the main bar. 905 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.780.3606. Map Q16 BAILIWICK Stylish bar serves craft cocktails, local brews and weekend brunch—all with a dash of Southern charm. Cool interior with white brick, crystal chandeliers, flat-screens and a tub filled with champagne.

756 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.795.3036. Map Q16 BANG BANG Campy, Asian-inspired restaurant/nightclub serves cocktails, punch bowls and an extensive sake list, while big-name DJs get the dance floor going on weekends. 526 Market St., Gaslamp, 619.677.2264. Map Q16 BARLEYMASH Choose from 30 beers on tap from local microbreweries at this casual-cool bar, which also serves up exceptional American cuisine. 600 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.255.7373. Map Q16 BASIC Urban bar in a cool, renovated warehouse near the ballpark serves brick-oven pizzas. 410 10th Ave., East Village, 619.531.8869. Map Q17 BOOTLEGGER This spacious, light-filled spot features vintage Prohibition-inspired design accents plus pub grub, flat-screen TVs and more. 804 Market St., East Village, 619.794.BOOT. Map Q17 BUB’S @ THE BALLPARK This super-casual East Village sports bar boasts flat screens at every turn so you’ll never miss a game, no matter the sport. Great beer selection and comfort food-style bar menu, plus salads and wraps. 715 J St., East Village, 619.546.0815. Map Q17

San Diego’s Best Cultural Value!

www.balboapark.org

THE CASBAH Small but legendary rock club has hosted superstars like Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins on their way up. Live music nightly. 2501 Kettner Blvd., Midtown, 619.232.4355. Map P15

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Nightlife CRAFT & COMMERCE This cozy watering hole features reclaimed wood ceilings, a library (with real books!) and craft cocktails by the city’s top mixologists.

Prepare to wait for a table on weekends. 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202. Map P15 EAST VILLAGE TAVERN & BOWL This lively sports bar and bowling alley near Petco Park also offers darts and pool. Fun bar menu. 950 Market St., East Village, 619.677.BOWL. Map R17

THE ORIGINAL HOLIDAY CLASSIC

EL CAMINO Indoor/outdoor Mexican eatery and cantina features unique under-the-flight-path location.

2400 India St., Little Italy, 619.685.3881. Map P15 EL DORADO Hip downtown bar boasts retro-clad mixologists, couture cocktails and DJs. 1030 Broadway, East Village, 619.237.0550. Map Q17 FLUXX Ambiance-changing dance club from the design team behind Sidebar and Stingaree.

500 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.8100. Map Q16 HENRY’S PUB Nightclub and restaurant serves California cuisine and showcases live entertainment nightly. A Gaslamp staple. 618 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.238.2389. Map Q16 HOUSE OF BLUES Live rock, blues and pop music, plus Sunday gospel brunch. Regular mix of national and regional acts. Call for current shows. 1055 Fifth Ave., downtown, 619.299.2583. Map Q16 ROOFTOP 600 Vegas-worthy club in the Andaz Hotel boasts sexy décor and a massive, recently renovated rooftop bar with downtown views.

600 F St., Gaslamp, 619.814.2055. Map Q16

SAN DIEGO PREMIERE

THEIR TRAGEDY. YOUR COMEDY.

,,

JAN 15 - FEB 15, 2015

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OLD TOWN | SAN DIEGO

Intimate, Joyful, Acclaimed

THE SHOUT! HOUSE Dueling pianos played by impossible-to-stump musicians. Music ranges from classic rock to contemporary hits. 655 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.231.6700. Map Q16 SIDEBAR DJs, dancing and bottle service at this sexy, modern downtown lounge. Watch out for swinging bird cages and nude portraits lining the walls. 536 Market St., Gaslamp, 619.696.0946. Map Q16 THE TILTED KILT Scottish-themed pub near the ballpark has 30 plasma TVs and pretty barmaids serving up 24 international brews. 310 10th Ave., East Village, 619.814.5458. Map Q17 THE TIN CAN Featuring craft beers and cocktails—and home of award-winning Doods Foods—this locals’ bar and music venue is owned and operated by musicians. 1863 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.955.8525. Map O16 THE TIPSY CROW A stylish neighborhood bar with three levels, pool tables, shuffleboard and trivia. Menu features pub grub, craft beer and signature cocktails.

770 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.9300. Map Q16 VIN DE SYRAH Alice in Wonderland-themed nightspot located below street level features an eye-popping décor, live music, wine and full bar. 901 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.234.4166. Map Q16

Ten minutes from downtown on beautiful Coronado Island, steps from the most romantic beaches and restaurants

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North Coast Repertory Theatre (858) 481-1055

SOLANA BEACH

www.northcoastrep.org

DECEMBER 10 – 28

JANUARY 14–FEBRUARY 8

La Jolla

BARFLY It’s a casual sports bar by day and trendy DJ/ dance club by night—specializing in private parties and bottle service—in the heart of the village. 909 Prospect St., 858.454.2323. Map W19 CAFÉ JAPENGO Beautiful people to go along with the artistic sushi and Asian fusion fare. Thursday nights are popular for the singles crowd. 8960 University Center Lane, UTC, 858.450.3355. Map T21

North County

BELLY UP North County’s premier live music venue with killer local and touring acts. 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach, 858.481.8140. Map X22

JAN. 14 – FEB. 8

Neil Simon’s

FEB. 25 – MARCH 22

OCT. 15 – NOV. 9

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Tours +Transport CARDIFF BEACH BAR AT TOWER 13 Casual beach haunt features live music, healthier bar fare and ocean views. 2633 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.635.1200. Map V22 CLUB M AT THE GRAND DEL MAR Chic bar/dance club features live music and guest DJs. 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, Carmel Valley, 858.314.2700. Map D2 COYOTE BAR & GRILL Hot live music and cool fire pits. Indoor/outdoor spot offers casual ambiance and a view. 300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, 760.729.4695. Map T22 EN FUEGO Lively singles vibe and tasty Mexican food served up on this restaurant’s bustling patio.

1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551.

Map X22 JIMMY O’S A favorite of sports fans and locals.

Choose between the sports bar and the nightclub. Friday and Saturday nights are popular for Del Mar socialites.

225 W. 15th St., Del Mar, 858.350.3735. Map X22 SADDLE BAR Enjoy craft beer, stiff drinks, live music and DJs at this Wild West-inspired bar located just a mile away from the racetrack. 123 W. Plaza St., Solana Beach, 858.755.5007. Map W22

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SAN DIEGO BEERWORKS Sample dozens of local craft beers—from lighter lagers to hoppy IPAs—at this tap room and store where exploration is highly encouraged. 437 S. Highway 101, Suite 107, Solana Beach, 858.353.7174. Map W22

Beaches

710 BEACH CLUB Steps from the beach, this live music venue has everything from rock to hip-hop. 710 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.483.7844. Map H8 HUMPHREYS BACKSTAGE LOUNGE Live jazz and blues along with dancing. A longtime favorite located right on the water. 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. Map K8 JRDN Tower 23 Hotel’s hip bar overlooks the ocean and has a variety of cocktails and a raw bar. 4551 Ocean Blvd., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736. Map H8 SOUTH BEACH BAR & GRILL Just steps away from the ocean, this bar offers a beachy-casual vibe, light fare and drinks. 5059 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.226.4577. Map J8 TURQUOISE CAFÉ BAR EUROPA Casual, Euro-style wine bar with tapas, cask wines and live music.

873 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach, 858.488.4200. Map H8 WONDERLAND OCEAN PUB The laid-back American restaurant and sports bar serves up burgers, seafood, craft beer, margaritas and views of the beach. 5083 Santa Monica Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.255.3358. Map J7

Tours + Transport BALBOA PARK Free tours about history, architecture, horticulture and botanical gardens. Call for schedule.

Visitors Center, House of Hospitality, 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0512. Map P17 BIPLANE, AIR COMBAT & WARBIRD ADVENTURES Go for a thrilling ride of a lifetime, yesteryear military style, over central San Diego. Among the airborne tours offered are gentle or thrilling coastal biplane rides for two, you-fly-it air combat, and loops and rolls in a WWII warbird. Montgomery Field, 760.930.0903.

CITYPASS Discount combo packages for the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, SeaWorld, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure. $279 (kids $239). 888.330.5008, citypass.com.

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Tours +Transport CORONADO HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION TOURS Educational and fun walking tours, including the Hotel del Coronado and the Coronado community— including their history, architecture and gardens.

Reservations required. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.8788. Map L11 CORONADO TOURING Walking tour around the historic Hotel del Coronado and neighborhood.

An ideal way to explore the area. Tu, Th and Sa at 11 a.m. $12; children 3 and under free. Meet at Glorietta Bay Inn, 1630 Glorietta Blvd., Coronado, 619.435.5993. Map L11 DESTINATION TEMECULA Door-to-door excursions to Temecula wine country, including wine tastings, complimentary wine glass, lunch and free time in Old Town Temecula. 28475 Old Town Front St., Temecula, 800.584.8162. Map A2 ENTERPRISE Daily car rentals with approximately 25 locations throughout Orange County and San Diego.

Pick-up service available. 888.484.HOTEL FLAGSHIP CRUISES AND EVENTS Daily narrated tours of San Diego Bay plus brunch and dinner cruises, water-taxi service and more. 990 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 800.442.7847. Map Q14 GASLAMP QUARTER HISTORICAL FOUNDATION Two-hour walking tour of the Gaslamp. Sa 11 a.m. $15.

410 Island Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.4692. Map R16 GASLAMP SEGWAY Guided segway tours of historic neighborhoods including La Jolla and Coronado.

Reservations required. Instruction provided for Segway newbies. 308 G St., Gaslamp, 619.239.2111. Map R16 HORNBLOWER CRUISES Daily narrated tours of San Diego Bay, plus dinner cruises, yacht charters, whale watching, weddings and events. One of the most popular and highest-rated cruise companies in San Diego. 970 N. Harbor Drive, ­Broadway Pier, ­Embarcadero, 619.686.8715. Map Q14 LA JOLLA KAYAK Enjoy guided snorkeling and kayak tours of La Jolla Cove and the Seven Caves, or rent single/double kayaks and snorkeling gear to explore on your own. Plus, whale-watching excursions, bike tours and more. 2199 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla Shores, 858.459.1114. Map V20 MAGICAL ADVENTURES Offering hot air balloon flights over scenic Del Mar and Temecula Valley wine country for an unforgettable sightseeing experience.

Be on the lookout for seasonal packages and special pricing for children. Offering both sunrise and sunset rides. 866.ENJOY.US. OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS OF SAN DIEGO Narrated sightseeing tour explores San Diego and ­Coronado via trolley or “SEAL” (sea and land vehicle).

On-and-off boarding privileges. Call for nearest pickup point and reservations. 619.298.8687.

ORION SAILING CHARTERS Offering daily cruises on San Diego Bay. Charters are also available on classic 1934 sailing ­vessel. Sheraton Harbor Island East, 1380 Harbor Island Drive, 619.574.7504. Map P13 SAIL SAN DIEGO Enjoy San Diego Bay on afternoon and sunset sails aboard one of the company’s four spacious boats. Snacks and drinks included. Customized accommodations and charters available; as well as all-inclusive packages. 2051 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.297.7426. Map K9 SAN DIEGO CHINESE HISTORICAL SOCIETY Unique walking tour of the Asian Pacific Historic District. Second Tu-Sa 10:30 a.m., Su noon.

Reservations required. $2; children under 12 free.

Chinese Historical Museum, 404 Third Ave., downtown, 619.338.9888. Map R16

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Tours +Transport SAN DIEGO LUXURY SAILING This upscale private charter company offers memorable sea excursions, including sunset sails and whale watching (seasonal) aboard a 45-foot luxury sailing yacht outfitted in premium amenities. Yacht memberships are also available. 1450 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 404.441.9414 Map J9 SAN DIEGO SCENIC TOURS Daily half-day and full-day tours of interesting attractions in San Diego and Mexico, including the famous Agua Caliente Racetrack in Tijuana. 858.273.8687.

SAN DIEGO SEAL TOURS This unique, 90-minute tour aboard the company’s bright-blue HydraTerra, an “amphibious vehicle” that drives passengers right into the water, explores San Diego Bay and its environs. Departs Th-M from Seaport Village. 619.298.8687. Map Q15 SIXT RENT A CAR Explore San Diego in style with a luxury car rental. Sixt offers a wide selection of sleek vehicles for any occasion, including BMW, Mercedes and even a Rolls Royce Ghost. Complimentary pick-up and drop-off at Sixt’s partner hotels. 2401 Pacific Hwy., downtown, 619.363.6000. Map P15 SKYSURFER HOT AIR BALLOON COMPANY Offers romantic 40-60-minute hot-air balloon tours (with Champagne) over coastal Del Mar and Temecula wine country. Perfect for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries and engagements. 2658 Del Mar Heights Road #198, Del Mar, 858.481.6800. Map X22 SO DIEGO TOURS Culinary, nightlife and bike/walk sightseeing tours from an insider’s perspective, geared toward active visitors looking for a departure from traditional sightseeing. Tours cover historic districts such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. 525 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.8687. Map Q16 SUP CORONADO Enjoy both group and private lessons in the popular sport of stand-up paddleboarding, plus ocean and bay tours. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned boarders. Various Coronado locations, 619.888.7686.

SUPER SHUTTLE Runs to and from the airport 24 hours a day. All major cards. Individuals, groups and charters welcome. Earn frequent-flier points and miles with select airlines. 800.BLUE.VAN. SKYE LIMOUSINE Upscale limousine and sedan service for the savvy traveler, offering a fleet of Chrysler 300 sedans, corporate vans and stretch limousines. 1322 K St., East Village, 619.239.7599. Map Q17 URBAN SAFARIS Weekend walkabouts of San Diego neighborhoods (or by appointment). Covers key points of interest and unique details for every area. 619.944.9255.

WHERE YOU WANT TO BE TOURS Offering team-building scavenger hunts that explore downtown San Diego. Walking and biking tours also available; plus culinary food tours and custom hotel property games. 611 K St., East Village, 619.917.6037.

Map Q16 XPLORE OFFSHORE Personalized ocean- rafting on a Navy SEAL-style boat: high-speed sightseeing, snorkeling and evening cocktails on the waterfront.

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CONTINUES AT BOTTOM RIGHT Torrey Pines State Reserve Copyright © 2014

5

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805 76

Torrey Pines State Reserve

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diego

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29 Watching PGA biggies tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines Golf Course. p. 7 Sipping organic cappuccino on the patio at The Swell Cafe in Mission Beach. p. 10 Whale-watching excursions, during which blue and gray whales can be spotted off S.D. shores, in winter and spring. p. 55 Witnessing Balboa Park come alive with lights, music and 300,000 holiday revelers at December Nights. p. 7 Watching the S.D. waterfront transform with hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights during the festive San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. p. 7

The airy architecture, craft cocktails and 1965 Airstream trailer at OB Warehouse in hippie-cool Ocean Beach. p. 9 Taking the ferry from downtown San Diego across the bay on a Saturday to the landmark Coronado Ferry Landing.

Hiking to the top of the famous (arguably infamous) Cowles Mountain on a crisp winter morning.

Teeing off at the glorious Maderas Golf Club in Poway.

866.233.0496 Meditating in the tranquil gardens of the Self-Realization Fellowship Temple. p. 29

Imbibing on experimental cocktails served in beakers and test tubes at Zymology 21. p. 10

Strolling along the Oceanside Pier while watching pelicans dive for their breakfast as surrounding surfers hang ten.

The naughty crispy chicken skins at Table No. 10. p. 9

Jogging along the scenic path at Spanish Landing Park.

where in the world

WHERE is an international network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com UNITED STATES Alaska, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Georgia, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Minneapolis/St. Paul,

Morning yoga and ocean views at Seagrove Park. p. 28

6 Kayaking through the famous Seven Caves along the La Jolla coastline. p. 23

Enjoying mai tais on the open-air patio at Fairweather bar overlooking Petco Park. p. 12

Sampling local craft beers at Panama 66 in Balboa Park. p. 35

Gallery-hopping along and near Prospect Street in the heart of La Jolla Village. pp. 22-23

Mountain-biking through the gorgeous trails of Tecolote Canyon Natural Park.

Dancing at concerts at the Belly Up in Solana Beach. p. 12

Organic, “Baja gastronomy” delights at Común Kitchen and Tavern in East Village. p. 16

The delicate, lemongrassinfused confections at Dallmann Fine Chocolates. p. 19 Watching canine companions run free with pure glee at Ocean Beach’s Dog Beach.

Sipping coffee while perusing the art galleries and boutiques of Cedros Design District in Solana Beach. p. 28 The fried egg, bacon and American cheese waffle sandwich at Rare Form. p. 12

Getting our health on with cold-pressed juice blends at Juice Saves in East Village. p. 10 Lunch at the outdoor cafe aboard the retired USS Midway aircraft carrier-turned-museum on the Embarcadero. p. 62 Shopping for gifts at The Front Porch in Mission Hills. p. 27 Ice-skating by the beach in the middle of December at the Hotel Del Coronado. p. 55

New Orleans, New York, Northern Virginia, Oahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix/Scottsdale, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, South Florida, St. Louis, Washington, D.C. ASIA Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore AUSTRALIA Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne CANADA Calgary, Canadian Rockies, Edmonton, Halifax, Muskoka/Parry Sound, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Winnipeg EUROPE Berlin, Budapest, London, Milan, Moscow, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg

27, DERRICKTRAN; 29, TYLER BEACH

WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE / san

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Blue Ocean Robata and Sushi Bar Blue Ocean Robata and Sushi Bar 2958 Madison Street 2958 Madison Street Carlsbad, CA 92008 Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760) 434-4959 (760) 434-4959 www.blueoceanrobatasushi.com www.blueoceanrobatasushi.com

Blue Smoke Sushi Lounge Blue Smoke Sushi Lounge 7007 Friars Road 7007 Friars Road San Diego, CA 92108 San Diego, CA 92108 (619) 291-7711 (619) 291-7711 www.bluesmokesushi.com www.bluesmokesushi.com

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Manufacture Zenith has consistently accompanied aviation pioneers by offering them onboard instruments and timepieces to match their accomplishments.

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11/17/14 1:39 PM